Augochloropsis sumptuosa
(Smith, 1853)
sweat bee
Augochloropsis sumptuosa is a of sweat in the , characterized by bright metallic green coloration. It belongs to the tribe Augochlorini, a group of small, often iridescent bees that are frequently mistaken for due to their similar appearance. The species has been documented in mark-recapture studies evaluating bee sampling methodologies, indicating its use as a representative for wild bee . Like other Augochlorini, it is a solitary or primitively social bee that nests in soil or rotting wood.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Augochloropsis sumptuosa: /ɔːɡoʊˌklɔːrɒpˈsɪs sʌmpˈtjuːoʊsə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Augochloropsis sumptuosa is virtually identical in appearance to other members of the Augochlorini tribe, including Augochlora and Augochlorella. All three display bright metallic green, -green, or occasionally brassy-coppery coloration. Definitive identification to genus requires microscopic examination; external alone is insufficient. The can be distinguished from ( ) by behavioral cues: sweat are commonly found on flowers, move more directly and less swiftly in , and females possess (pollen- hairs) on the hind legs. Male Augochloropsis lack scopae and cannot be distinguished from males of related genera without dissection.
Images
Distribution
North America
Ecological Role
As a member of the , Augochloropsis sumptuosa contributes to services in natural and agricultural environments. The has been employed as a study organism in mark-recapture research validating wild sampling protocols, specifically to assess the detectability and abundance of green sweat bee .
Human Relevance
Augochloropsis sumptuosa has been utilized in scientific research to evaluate the efficacy of common methods, including pan traps and aerial netting. Its inclusion in mark-recapture studies helps researchers understand in index sampling techniques and improve monitoring protocols for wild bee .
Similar Taxa
- Augochlora puraVirtually identical bright metallic green coloration; microscopic examination required for separation. Augochlora pura frequently exhibits brassy, coppery, or bronze tones in the eastern United States.
- Augochlorella spp.Indistinguishable from Augochloropsis by external alone; all three in tribe Augochlorini require microscopic identification.
- Agapostemon spp.Similar metallic green coloration but generally larger and more hairy; males have banded black and , females often have black abdomens with pale hair .
- Chrysididae (cuckoo wasps)Similar metallic coloration but lack pollen- on hind legs, are seldom found on flowers, and exhibit quick, jerky movements when alighted.