A new species of Fidelia Friese, 1899 is described from southern Africa: Fidelia (Fideliopsis) whiteheadi Litman & Kuhlmann sp. nov. Diagnostic characters are provided to distinguish this species from others in the genus, particularly from the closely related F. hessei; an updated description for Fidelia hessei is also given. The host plant preferences and seasonal activity of F. whiteheadi Litman & Kuhlmann sp. nov. and F. hessei are discussed. Finally, a revised, illustrated key to species of the genus Fidelia is presented.
Bees, Fidelia whiteheadi sp. nov., South Africa, Namibia, pollinator.