Megachile gemula

Cresson, 1878

Small-handed Leaf-cutter Bee

Megachile gemula is a solitary leafcutter in the , described by Cresson in 1878. It is commonly known as the Small-handed Leaf-cutter Bee. As a member of the Megachile, it shares the characteristic of cutting leaf pieces to construct nest chambers. The species has been recorded in North America, with specific observations documented in Vermont, United States.

Megachile gemula by USGS Native Bee Inventory and Monitoring Laboratory. Used under a Public domain license.

Megachile gemula, F, Back, PG county, MD 2014-01-30-10.39.39 ZS PMax (13233272704) by USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab from Beltsville, Maryland, USA. Used under a Public domain license.

Megachile gemula, f, side, Maine, Du Clos 2015-12-01-15.01 (23489882293) by USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab from Beltsville, Maryland, USA. Used under a Public domain license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Megachile gemula: /ˌmɛɡəˈkaɪli ˈdʒɛm.jʊ.lə/

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

Identification

As a Megachile , M. gemula likely exhibits the -typical broad, flattened with scopal hairs on the surface for pollen transport rather than on the hind legs. Distinguishing M. gemula from other Megachile species requires examination of specific morphological characters such as structure, tergal punctation patterns, and genitalic features, which are the standard criteria for species-level identification in this genus. The "Small-handed Leaf-cutter " suggests relatively small mandibles or forelegs compared to .

Images

Distribution

North America, with confirmed records from Vermont, United States. GBIF distribution records indicate presence in North America generally and specifically in Vermont.

More Details

Taxonomic History

Described by Ezra Townsend Cresson in 1878. The specific epithet 'gemula' is Latin, possibly referring to 'twin' or 'paired', though the etymological basis has not been documented in available sources.

Observation Data

iNaturalist records approximately 150 observations of this , indicating it is documented but not commonly encountered relative to more widespread Megachile species.