Perdita pilonotata

Timberlake, 1980

Perdita pilonotata is a of mining in the , described by Timberlake in 1980. It belongs to the large Perdita, which contains over 800 species of small, solitary bees to North America. Members of this genus are typically with narrow associations. The species epithet 'pilonotata' refers to distinctive pilose (hairy) markings.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Perdita pilonotata: /pɛrˈdiːtə ˌpaɪloʊˈnoʊtətə/

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Identification

Distinguished from other Perdita by the presence of distinctive pilose (hairy) markings referenced in the species name. Accurate identification requires examination of microscopic morphological features including and patterns. Similar to other members of the Perdita, it lacks the facial present in the related genus Andrena. Separation from depends on subtle differences in punctation , hair patterns, and male genitalic structure.

Appearance

A small mining typical of the Perdita, characterized by hairy markings on the body as indicated by the epithet 'pilonotata' (meaning 'hairy-marked'). As with other Perdita species, individuals are minute to small in size, generally measuring less than 10 mm in length. The body is slender with sparse to moderate pilosity. Specific coloration and pattern details for this species are not documented in available sources.

Distribution

North America. Specific range boundaries and locality records are not documented in available sources.

Similar Taxa

Perdita minimaAnother extremely small Perdita ; P. pilonotata may be distinguished by its characteristic hairy markings versus the reduced size of P. (approximately 2 mm, among the smallest known)
Andrena speciesRelated mining in the same ; Perdita including P. pilonotata lack the facial (depressions with dense branched hairs) that characterize Andrena

More Details

Taxonomic context

The Perdita is the largest genus of in North America, with over 800 described . Most are with narrow associations, though the specific host plants of P. pilonotata remain undocumented.

Etymology

The specific epithet 'pilonotata' derives from Latin roots: 'pilo-' (hair) and 'notata' (marked), referring to distinctive hairy markings on the body.