Lasioglossum viridatum

(Lovell, 1905)

sweat bee

Lasioglossum viridatum is a small sweat bee in the Halictidae, described by Lovell in 1905. Like other members of its , it is a ground-nesting solitary or semi-social . The is part of the enormous Lasioglossum genus, which contains over 1,700 species globally and is frequently encountered in bee monitoring studies due to its abundance. It has been recorded in North America, with specific observations from Vermont.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lasioglossum viridatum: //ˌlæ.si.oʊˈɡlɒsəm vɪˈrɪd.ə.təm//

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Identification

As a Lasioglossum , L. viridatum requires expert examination for definitive identification. The is notoriously difficult, with many species distinguishable only by subtle morphological characters visible under magnification. Identification to species level typically requires examination of male genitalia or specific wing venation patterns. It can be distinguished from the more commonly referenced Dialictus subgenus members by characters used to define its specific taxonomic placement within Lasioglossum.

Habitat

Specific preferences for L. viridatum are not documented in available sources. As a ground-nesting halictid, it likely occurs in open, sunny areas with suitable soil for burrow excavation.

Distribution

Recorded from North America, with confirmed presence in Vermont, United States. The full extent of its range within North America is not well-documented in available sources.

Diet

As with other Lasioglossum , likely feed on nectar and collect pollen to provision nest for offspring. Specific floral associations for this species are not documented.

Life Cycle

As a halictid , L. viridatum likely exhibits solitary or weakly eusocial nesting typical of the , with females excavating underground burrows and provisioning individual with pollen and nectar. Detailed information specific to this is not available.

Behavior

No -specific behavioral observations are documented. As a member of Lasioglossum, it may exhibit sweat-seeking common to the group, where lap perspiration from human skin to obtain salts and minerals.

Ecological Role

As a , L. viridatum likely contributes to pollination of wildflowers and potentially crops, though its specific ecological impact is not quantified. Like other small halictids, it may be underrepresented in visual observations relative to its actual abundance.

Similar Taxa

Other Lasioglossum speciesExtremely similar in general appearance; -level identification requires expert taxonomic examination of microscopic characters.
Dialictus subgenus membersThese are frequently the most abundant Lasioglossum in bowl and may co-occur; L. viridatum is distinguished by specific morphological characters placing it outside this subgenus.
Halictus speciesSimilar size and general halictid appearance, but typically have banded and different wing venation.

More Details

Taxonomic note

Lasioglossum is the largest of bees with over 1,700 described . L. viridatum is one of many species in this hyperdiverse genus that are poorly known biologically. The species epithet 'viridatum' suggests greenish coloration, distinguishing it from the more commonly encountered metallic or dull-colored species in the genus.

Monitoring relevance

While not specifically mentioned in monitoring literature, L. viridatum exemplifies the challenge of bowl sampling methods, which often collect large numbers of difficult-to-identify Lasioglossum that require expert taxonomists and substantial curation resources.