Augochlorella neglectula

(Cockerell, 1897)

sweat bee

Augochlorella neglectula is a metallic green sweat bee in the Halictidae. It is one of sixteen recognized in the Augochlorella, which is distributed across the New World. The species exhibits the bright metallic coloration typical of the tribe Augochlorini, making it visually similar to and other augochlorine bees. Subspecific variation includes the coastal form A. neglectula maritima, though this has been synonymized with the nominate in some treatments.

Augochlorella neglectula by CBG Photography Group, Centre for Biodiversity Genomics. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Augochlorella neglectula: /ɔːɡoʊklɔːˈrɛlə nɛɡˈlɛktjʊlə/

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

Identification

Augochlorella neglectula is virtually indistinguishable from other Augochlorini (Augochlora, Augochloropsis) without microscopic examination. All three genera share bright metallic green to blue-green coloration. The genus Augochlorella itself requires detailed morphological analysis for -level identification. Females possess scopae (pollen-collecting hairs) on the hind legs, distinguishing them from similar-looking cuckoo wasps (Chrysididae), which lack pollen-carrying structures and are seldom found on flowers.

Images

Distribution

Recorded from the United States, Mexico, Panama, and Colombia. The A. neglectula maritima was described from coastal , suggesting possible association with maritime environments.

Similar Taxa

Augochlora puraSimilar metallic green coloration and shared tribe Augochlorini; A. pura frequently exhibits brassy, coppery, or bronze tones unlike typical bright green of Augochlorella
AugochloropsisCongeneric tribe member with virtually identical metallic green appearance; microscopic examination required for separation
AgapostemonAnother metallic green halictid ; males have banded black and yellow unlike uniform metallic coloration of Augochlorella, and females are hairier
Chrysididae (cuckoo wasps)Similar metallic appearance but lack pollen-collecting scopae on hind legs, exhibit quick jerky movements, and are rarely found on flowers