Lasioglossum nymphale

(Smith, 1853)

sweat bee

Lasioglossum nymphale is a of sweat in the , first described by Smith in 1853. As a member of the large Lasioglossum, it belongs to a group of small, often metallic bees commonly known as sweat bees due to their attraction to human perspiration. The species occurs in North America and shares the general of other Lasioglossum species, including ground-nesting and solitary or semi-social nesting habits.

Lasioglossum nymphale, F, side, Georgia, Camden County 2013-02-22-19.19.22 ZS PMax by USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Laboratory from Beltsville, USA. Used under a Public domain license.Lasioglossum nymphale by USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Laboratory. Used under a Public domain license.Lasioglossum nymphale, side 2012-07-31-17.30.41 ZS PMax (49517718812) by USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab from Beltsville, Maryland, USA. Used under a Public domain license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lasioglossum nymphale: //ˌleɪ.si.oʊˈɡlɒsəm ˈnɪm.fə.li//

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Distribution

North America

Ecological Role

As a member of , L. nymphale likely contributes to pollination of native plants, though specific records are not documented in available sources.

Human Relevance

Like other sweat , individuals may be attracted to human perspiration to obtain salts and minerals; females possess a mild sting that is rarely used unless the bee is trapped or crushed.

Similar Taxa

  • Lasioglossum (subgenus Dialictus)Small, often metallic sweat in this subgenus are frequently encountered together and require microscopic examination for definitive identification; L. nymphale belongs to this subgenus and shares its general .
  • Halictus speciesMedium-sized brown or blackish sweat with white abdominal bands can resemble Lasioglossum , but Halictus typically have more pronounced banding and different wing venation.

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