Rozen (1997) describes this species. Its distribution overlaps that of P. toroi. Penapis moldenkei has been collected in Chile from Iquique in the north, to south of Copiapo in the south. Pollen and nectar are collected from Argylia radiata (Bignoniaceae). Calandrinia spp. (Portulacaceae) may also be a food source. No information on nesting or social behavior is given.
