Lasioglossum albipenne

(Robertson, 1890)

white-winged metallic-sweat bee, white-winged sweat bee

Lasioglossum albipenne is a metallic sweat bee in the Halictidae, commonly known as the white-winged metallic-sweat bee. It belongs to the subgenus Dialictus, a large and taxonomically challenging group of small bees. The was originally described by Robertson in 1890 and has undergone taxonomic revision, with several synonymies resolved in recent Canadian treatments. Like other members of its , it is a ground-nesting and likely contributes to pollination in its native range.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lasioglossum albipenne: //ˌlæsi.oʊˈɡlɒsəm ˌælbiˈpɛni//

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

Identification

Identified as a metallic within the subgenus Dialictus; distinguished from similar Lasioglossum species by wing coloration (pale/white wings) and specific morphological characters detailed in taxonomic keys. Males and females can be separated using identification keys provided in the Canadian revision of metallic Dialictus. Distinguished from other small bees by combination of metallic body coloration and pale wing .

Appearance

A small metallic sweat bee with distinctive pale or white-tinted wings, as indicated by the specific epithet 'albipenne' (white-winged). Members of the subgenus Dialictus typically exhibit metallic coloration, often green, blue, or bronze. Detailed morphological descriptions with illustrations are available in taxonomic revisions.

Habitat

Ground-nesting , typical of the subgenus Dialictus. Specific preferences for this are not well documented in available sources, though members of this group generally occupy open, sunny areas with suitable soil for nest excavation.

Distribution

North America; recorded in Canada (included in revision of Canadian metallic Dialictus) and the United States, including Vermont.

Life Cycle

Ground-nesting; females excavate individual burrows in soil. Specific details of developmental stages and for this are not documented in available sources.

Ecological Role

; members of Lasioglossum (Dialictus) are among the most commonly collected bees in North America and contribute to pollination services.

Human Relevance

Like other sweat bees, may be attracted to human perspiration for salts and minerals; stings are mild if provoked. Contributes to wild diversity and associated services.

Similar Taxa

Other Lasioglossum (Dialictus) speciesMany metallic Dialictus are morphologically similar and require detailed examination or taxonomic keys for separation; L. albipenne is distinguished by pale wing coloration.
Halictus speciesMedium-sized brown or blackish sweat bees with white abdominal bands; lack the metallic coloration typical of Lasioglossum (Dialictus).
Agapostemon speciesBrilliant metallic green sweat bees that may be confused with metallic Lasioglossum; generally larger and with different morphological details.

More Details

Taxonomic history

L. albipenne has a complex taxonomic history with multiple synonymies proposed: Halictus palustris Robertson, Halictus (Chloralictus) lactineus Sandhouse, and Halictus (C.) basilicus Sandhouse were all synonymized under this name in the 2010 Canadian revision.

Taxonomic challenge

The subgenus Dialictus, to which L. albipenne belongs, is described as one of the greatest challenges in due to high and morphological similarity among .