Paranthidium jugatorium lepidum
(Cresson, 1878)
Southeastern Sunflower Burrowing-Resin Bee
Paranthidium jugatorium lepidum is a of resin in the . It is recognized by the "Southeastern Sunflower Burrowing-Resin Bee" and is distributed across central and western Mexico. As a member of the Paranthidium, it is presumed to construct nests using resins and to exhibit solitary nesting . The subspecies designation indicates geographic variation within the broader P. jugatorium.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Paranthidium jugatorium lepidum: /ˌpærænˈθɪdiəm ˌdʒuɡəˈtɔːriəm ˈlɛpɪdəm/
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Identification
Distinguished from the nominate P. j. jugatorium and other Paranthidium by subtle morphological differences, likely involving integumental sculpturing and coloration patterns, though specific diagnostic characters for this subspecies are not well documented in accessible literature. As with other , females carry pollen on the rather than on the hind legs.
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Distribution
Recorded from the Mexican states of Sonora, Sinaloa, Durango, Zacatecas, Jalisco, Michoacán, México (state), Ciudad de México, and Chihuahua. The occupies a broad latitudinal range across central and western Mexico, from the Pacific coastal lowlands to the interior highlands.
Similar Taxa
- Paranthidium jugatorium jugatoriumThe nominate ; P. j. lepidum is distinguished by geographic distribution and subtle morphological differences, though precise separation criteria require examination.
- Other Paranthidium speciesMembers of this share resin- and general ; accurate identification to or level requires detailed examination of male and integumental features.
More Details
Taxonomic Note
This was described by Cresson in 1878. The epithet "lepidum" (meaning pleasant, charming, or elegant in Latin) may refer to perceived aesthetic qualities of the . The "Southeastern Sunflower Burrowing-Resin " suggests an association with sunflower (Helianthus) pollen collection, though this specific relationship has not been independently verified.