15. Bombus (Megabombus) czerskii Skorikov

(Figs 32, 33)

Bombus czerskii Skorikov, 1910b:413.

Material examined. 4 queens, 17 workers, 9 males (IAB).

Distribution in North China. Common at medium elevations of the transition zone between the edge of the east Otindag semi-desert and the southernmost of the Great Khingan mountains, in Majiayingzi, Keshiketeng, Neimenggu. Rare at medium elevations of the Ziwuling nature reserve of the loess plateau in Gansu, at medium elevations of the Lvliangshan mountains in Shanxi, at medium elevations of the Bashang plateau in Hebei, at low elevations of the Honghuaerji forest park, on the edge of the east Hulunbeir grassland to the Great Khingan mountians in Neimenggu, and at low elevations in the grasslands in Keerqinyouyiqianqi and in Ningcheng, Neimenggu. 12 localities (Fig. 32) between 471–1557 m (IAB).

Similar species in North China. This species is similar in its yellow-banded colour pattern to B. religiosus and B. sushkini (see the key; Figs 31, 33, 35).

Distribution in China. Hebei, Shanxi, Neimenggu, Gansu (IAB).

Forage plants. ASTERACEAE: Cosmos bipinnatus, Helianthus annuus; FABACEAE: Onobrychis viciifolia; LAMIACEAE: Leonurus sibiricus.