Blood Bees

Sphecodes

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hymenoptera
Family: Halictidae
Subfamily: Halictinae
Tribe: Halictini
Genus: Sphecodes

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Sphecodes: /ˈsfiːkəˌdiːz/

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

Images

Sphecodes carolinus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Sphecodes autumnalis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Sphecodes thoracicus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Sphecodes ignitus by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Sphecodes lautipennis by the Smithsonian. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Sphecodes is a genus of kleptoparasitic bees known as blood bees, characterized predominantly by their black and red coloration. They do not collect pollen, relying instead on the resources of other bees to rear their young. With a cosmopolitan distribution, they are found across various regions globally, contributing significantly to ecological dynamics.

Physical Characteristics

Majority are black and red in color; medium-sized bees.

Identification Tips

Look for kleptoparasitic behavior, as they do not collect their own pollen and often look like Lasioglossum bees.

Habitat

Found in various habitats across continents; often within areas where other bees, especially Halictinae, are present.

Distribution

Cosmopolitan; species found on every continent, notably abundant in Siberia, Central Europe, the Indian region, the Arabian Peninsula, and Southeast Asia. Limited representation in northeastern Australia and the US.

Diet

Adults consume nectar; they do not collect pollen as they rely on other bees' provisions for their offspring.

Life Cycle

Sphecodes are kleptoparasites, often laying their eggs in the nests of other Halictinae species, where the larvae consume the host's stored food.

Reproduction

Females lay eggs in other bee nests, specifically targeting those of genera such as Lasioglossum, Halictus, and Andrena.

Ecosystem Role

Act as cleptoparasites influencing the population dynamics of their host species and contributing to the ecological balance among pollinators.

Collecting Methods

Netting adult bees in their natural habitat
Using malaise traps to capture them in flowering areas

Preservation Methods

Pinning specimens for taxidermy
Storing in alcohol for molecular studies

Evolution

Part of the subfamily Halictinae, Sphecodes have evolved to exhibit parasitic behaviors resembling those of other kleptoparasitic bees.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Their resemblance to other bees may confuse individuals; however, their kleptoparasitic lifestyle sets them apart.