Dufourea versatilis
(Bridwell, 1919)
sweat bee
Dufourea versatilis is a of sweat in the . It is found in North America. The species has two recognized : Dufourea versatilis versatilis and Dufourea versatilis rubriventris. Members of the Dufourea are commonly known as short-faced bees.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dufourea versatilis: //dʊˈfɔːriə vɜrˈsætɪlɪs//
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Identification
As a member of the Dufourea, this can be recognized by the short characteristic of the genus— the is short and broad, with the distance from the antennal sockets to the clypeal margin being notably reduced compared to other . The two differ in coloration: the nominate subspecies D. v. versatilis and D. v. rubriventris (described by Michener in 1951) show variation in coloration, with rubriventris presumably exhibiting reddish abdominal ventral surfaces as suggested by its name.
Habitat
Specific associations are not documented for this . As a member of , it likely occupies open habitats where its plants occur, but direct evidence is lacking.
Distribution
North America. GBIF records indicate presence in Middle America and North America. The has been documented in the southwestern United States, with observational records from Arizona.
Similar Taxa
- Dufourea mauraAnother North Dufourea ; separation requires examination of male and subtle morphological differences in punctation and coloration.
- Other Halictidae genera (Lasioglossum, Halictus)Dufourea is distinguished from these common sweat by its characteristically short, broad and reduced facial length.
More Details
Subspecies
Two are recognized: Dufourea versatilis versatilis (Bridwell, 1919) and Dufourea versatilis rubriventris Michener, 1951. The latter was described from material showing reddish coloration.
Taxonomic history
Originally described by Bridwell in 1919. The rubriventris was added by Michener in 1951 based on color variation.