Typical Orchid Bees

Euglossa

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Euglossa: //juːˈɡlɒsə//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Euglossa liopoda by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Euglossa liopoda by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Euglossa (Euglossa) cognata by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Euglossa retroviridis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Euglossa (Euglossa) liopoda by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.
Euglossa (Euglossa) bidentata by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Euglossa is a genus of orchid bees native to the Neotropics, with bright metallic colorations and a crucial role in pollination, particularly of orchids. A small introduced population exists in Florida.

Physical Characteristics

Typically bright metallic blue, green, coppery, or golden; some species exhibit atypical morphology and coloration, such as Euglossa intersecta, which resembles Eufriesea.

Identification Tips

Look for bright metallic coloration and distinct morphological features typical of orchid bees; Euglossa intersecta may be confused with Eufriesea due to similarity in characters.

Habitat

Primarily found in tropical habitats, such as forests, where orchids are present. An introduced population exists in Florida.

Distribution

Naturally occurs from Mexico to Paraguay, northern Argentina, western Brazil, and islands like Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. E. dilemma is known to be introduced in Florida, USA.

Diet

Primarily nectar and pollen from flowers, particularly orchids.

Life Cycle

Incomplete metamorphosis typical of bees, involving egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Nesting habits may vary; many species nest in pre-existing cavities or, in some cases, in rotting wood or plant stems. Males are known to collect fragrances for mating rituals.

Ecosystem Role

Important pollinators, particularly of tropical orchids; contributing to ecosystem health and biodiversity.

Collecting Methods

  • Netting during active hours when foraging on flowers
  • Using bait traps to attract species to certain fragrances

Preservation Methods

  • Ethanol storage
  • Pinning in entomology collection
  • Drying and mounting specimens

Evolution

Part of the family Apidae and subfamily Apinae; closely related to other genera within the Euglossini tribe.

Similar Taxa

Tags

  • Euglossa
  • orchid bees
  • Hymenoptera
  • pollinators
  • Neotropics