Lasioglossum actinosum

(Sandhouse, 1924)

sweat bee

Lasioglossum actinosum is a of sweat in the , one of over 1,700 species in the Lasioglossum. Like other halictids, it is likely a ground-nesting solitary or semi-social bee. The species was described by Sandhouse in 1924 and occurs in North America. Members of this genus are frequently encountered in bee monitoring studies using bowl traps, though specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lasioglossum actinosum: /ˌlæsiˈoʊɡlɒsəm ækˈtaɪnəsəm/

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

Identification

As a member of the subgenus Dialictus within Lasioglossum, L. actinosum is likely a small with metallic coloration, though specific diagnostic features distinguishing it from are not readily available in the provided sources. The Lasioglossum contains numerous morphologically similar that require expert examination for accurate identification.

Distribution

North America. Distribution records indicate presence across the continent, though specific range boundaries are not well-documented in available sources.

Behavior

Like other Lasioglossum , individuals may be attracted to human perspiration to obtain salts and minerals. The species likely nests in soil, consistent with the nesting of most halictids.

Ecological Role

As a member of , likely contributes to pollination of wild plants and potentially agricultural crops, though specific plant associations for this are not documented.

Human Relevance

May occasionally land on humans to obtain moisture and salts from perspiration; females can sting if handled roughly, though the sting is generally considered mild compared to other hymenopterans.

Similar Taxa

  • Lasioglossum (subgenus Dialictus) speciesMembers of this subgenus are morphologically similar small sweat with metallic coloration; identification to level requires microscopic examination and specialist knowledge.
  • Other Halictidae genera (e.g., Halictus, Agapostemon)These share the 'sweat ' and similar attraction to human perspiration, but differ in size, coloration, and abdominal banding patterns.

Tags

Sources and further reading