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Augochloropsis metallica

The Augochloropsis metallica is a shiny green bee that loves to visit flowers. These friendly insects help plants grow by spreading pollen as they collect nectar.

Habitat: Urban areas

Appearance

The Augochloropsis metallica is a small, iridescent bee with a striking metallic green or blue-green body. Its smooth, shiny exoskeleton makes it visually distinct from many other bees, often glinting like a jewel in the sunlight.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderHymenopteraFamilyHalictidaeGenusAugochloropsis

Photo: Jim McCullochCC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia CommonsView original ↗

Augochloropsis metallica

Interesting facts

Their amazing green color isn't a pigment, but tiny structures that reflect light like a prism!

These dazzling bees are solitary, meaning each female builds her own nest without a queen!

They often choose old logs or fallen branches for their nurseries, drilling perfect tunnels inside.

Unlike many bees, they don't produce honey, focusing purely on pollen and nectar for their young.

Special abilities

Augochloropsis metallica can vibrate flower parts (sonication) that helps them release stubborn pollen from certain plants.

Augochloropsis metallica can chew into rotting wood to create tunnels that helps them build safe nests for their offspring.

Augochloropsis metallica has a shimmering metallic exoskeleton that helps them blend with foliage to avoid predators.

Measurements & details

Wingspan: 8-14 mm
Size: 5-9 mm
Lifespan: 40-70 days
Flight Speed: 15 km/h
Leg Count: 6

Diet & Feeding

These bees feast on flower nectar for energy and gather pollen to feed their growing babies.

Primary Foods

Nectar
Pollen
Sunflower
Aster
Goldenrod

Foraging Method

Foraging

Ecological connections

Pollinates

Black-eyed Susan

Rudbeckia hirta

Transfers pollen between flowers

Pollinates

Canada Goldenrod

Solidago canadensis

Helps plant reproduce by carrying pollen

Pollinates

Wild Bergamot

Monarda fistulosa

Crucial for this flower's reproduction

Eaten by

Eastern Phoebe

Sayornis phoebe

A common bird that preys on flying insects

Eaten by

Crab Spider

Misumena vatia

Ambush predator on flowers, preys on bees

Traits

Solitary

Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.

Colorful

Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.

Herbivorous

This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.

Pollinator Magnet

Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.

Diurnal

Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.

Urban Friendly

This habitat trait indicates species that can coexist with humans in urban and suburban environments, utilizing man-made structures and green spaces.

Pollinator

Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Insects

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Be gentle and quiet around bees; they are helpful and usually won't sting unless scared.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Augochloropsis metallica?

Look for six legs, antennae, three body sections and the shape of the wings. Beetles have hardened front wings; flies have just one working pair. Tiny insects may need a close view before their group is clear. Insect Identifier: upload a photo and compare the visible details.

What is Augochloropsis metallica's wingspan?

8-14 mm

How big is Augochloropsis metallica?

5-9 mm

How long does Augochloropsis metallica live?

40-70 days

How fast can Augochloropsis metallica fly?

15 km/h

What does Augochloropsis metallica eat?

These bees feast on flower nectar for energy and gather pollen to feed their growing babies.

Where is Augochloropsis metallica usually found?

Urban areas