This sweat bee is approximately 1/2 inch in length. The head and thorax are a metallic yellow-green color. The abdomen is shiny with black and yellow bands. The antennae are dark brown. The wings are a clear tan color. The legs are yellow with black markings. Agapostemon bees are differentiated from other metallic green bees by the hind tibia being equal to or exceeding the tarsii in length.
The frequency of occurrence is not currently known. The individuals shown here were photographed on Marsh Trail in Fontenelle Forest in early September.
These bees nest in burrows in the soil or sometimes rotting wood. Occasionally several females will use one burrow guarded by a single female. The nests usually have a main central tunnel with branches leading to single cells. The larvae feed on pollen balls.
The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Loren Padelford.