Euglossine

Definition

A member of the tribe Euglossini (subfamily Apinae, family Apidae), commonly called orchid bees; a corbiculate bee lineage distinguished by the absence of universal eusociality among its non-parasitic species. Males are renowned for collecting volatile fragrances from orchids and other sources, using specialized leg brushes to store and later display these compounds during mating displays.

Etymology

From Greek eu- (well, true) + glossa (tongue), referring to the elongated mouthparts adapted for nectar extraction from deep floral tubes.

Example

Male euglossine bees of the genus Eulaema visit Catasetum orchids, triggering explosive pollinarium ejection when they brush against the flower's sensitive trigger hairs while collecting fragrances.

Synonyms

• orchid bee
• Euglossini

Related Terms

• corbicula
• eusociality
• kleptoparasitism
• Apidae
• Apinae
• pollinarium
• fragrance collection
• mutualism

Usage Notes

As an adjective, 'euglossine' modifies bees, behavior, or ecology; as a noun, it refers to individual bees or the tribe collectively. The term contrasts with other corbiculate groups (honey bees, bumble bees, stingless bees) in which eusociality is obligate. Some euglossine species are solitary, others communal or weakly social; the tribe includes the only known cleptoparasitic orchid bee genus, Exaerete. In ecological literature, 'euglossine' often specifically denotes male fragrance-foraging behavior and its role in orchid pollination.