Halictus confusus arapahonum
Cockerell, 1906
Arapaho Metallic-Furrow bee
Halictus confusus arapahonum is a of sweat in the , described by Cockerell in 1906. As a member of the Halictus, it is likely a primitively or solitary ground-nesting bee. The nominate Halictus confusus is known as the Confusing Furrow Bee or Metallic-Furrow bee. This subspecies is distinguished by geographic range and subtle morphological differences from other of H. confusus. Like other halictids, are that visit diverse flowering plants.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Halictus confusus arapahonum: /hæˈlɪktəs kənˈfjuːsəs ˌærəˈpɑːhoʊnəm/
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Identification
As a of Halictus confusus, H. c. arapahonum would be distinguished from other H. confusus primarily by geographic distribution and subtle morphological features. The Halictus confusus is characterized by metallic coloration typical of the , with furrowed impressions on the propodeum (the part of the ). Males and females can be distinguished by structure and leg . Precise identification to subspecies level requires examination of and comparison with the nominate subspecies H. c. confusus.
Distribution
The epithet "arapahonum" and authority Cockerell, 1906 suggest a North distribution, likely in the western United States given Cockerell's extensive work in that region. The Arapaho name implies association with areas historically inhabited by the Arapaho people, which would include parts of Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska, and Kansas.
Diet
As a , are that collect nectar and pollen from diverse flowering plants. Based on observations of related Halictus , they likely favor plants in the Asteraceae , including Echinacea (cone flowers), though specific records for this are not documented.
Ecological Role
As a , this contributes to the of flowering plants in its . Like other Halictus , it likely nests in soil, contributing to soil aeration and through its burrowing activities.
Human Relevance
As a , this contributes to services including of wild plants and potentially . No specific economic importance or pest status has been documented.
Similar Taxa
- Halictus confusus confususThe nominate ; distinguished by geographic range and subtle morphological differences
- Halictus ligatusA closely related sweat with similar size, metallic coloration, and foraging ; distinguished by differences in pronotal shape and male
- Agapostemon virescensAnother metallic green often found in similar ; distinguished by bright green coloration and solitary nesting
More Details
Nomenclature
The name "arapahonum" honors the Arapaho people, following a common practice in early 20th century of using tribal names for western North American .
Taxonomic Note
The validity and current recognition of this should be verified against modern taxonomic revisions of Halictus, as many historically described subspecies of have been synonymized or elevated to rank based on molecular and morphological studies.