As the only native bee, Xylocopa darwini serves as an important primary pollinator within the plant-pollinator network of the archipelago.

[9] Male Galápagos carpenter bees have been recorded exhibiting territorial behavior, and may defend plants from intruders.

They patrol the claimed shrub or tree and chase away trespassing animals, but allow female bees to enter the defended area.

[10] These insects serve as an important keystone species since they are the predominant pollinators of native and introduced plants on the islands.

Introduced birds such as the smooth-billed ani have been documented preying on the bees, which could significantly affect the unique ecosystem of the archipelago.