While some Megachilidae are extensively studied for their commercial possibilities (or impacts), others are studied by naturalists. "Chalicodoma" mason bees, not commonly cultivated, are known through extended observation and writings in the last half of the 19th century by Jean-Henri Fabre, with his writings made further famous by his English translator Alexander Teixeira de Mattos ("The Mason Bee"); Fabre wrote many observations, including of other Megachilidae, from his home in France, and his writings inspired many future researchers and enthusiasts, from Charles Darwin to Gerald Durrell. "Chalicodoma" typically uses grit rather than mud in nest construction, along with other differences.