The Magnificent Green Bees
Green bees are truly one of nature’s wonders. With their vibrant metallic bodies, these insects add a pop of color to backyards and gardens across North America. Of the over 20,000 known bee species green bees stand out for their unique emerald jade, and turquoise hues.
There are approximately 42 known species of green bees within the Agapostemon genus. Ranging in size from 0.3 to 0.6 inches long, these medium-sized bees are native to the Western Hemisphere. Their habitat spans from Canada down to Argentina, with the highest populations found in tropical climates.
The most distinguishing feature of green bees is their brilliant metallic coloring. The head and thorax are primarily jewel-toned, displaying rich shades of green, blue, or both. Meanwhile, the abdomen often features contrasting black and yellow striped banding. However, some females exhibit completely green or blue bodies without striping.
When sunlight hits their bodies just right, these bees can gleam an array of spectacular shades. Hues of emerald, jade, teal, turquoise, and aquamarine make these insects shine like little flying gemstones. The function of this dazzling coloration remains uncertain, but some experts believe it may serve as a warning to potential predators that the bees could be toxic.
Green bees earned their common name from their penchant for licking sweat, particularly for its salty content. However, they do not exhibit attraction to human perspiration like some other sweat bee species. Instead, these bees seek out nectar and pollen from flowering plants. Their feeding habits make them influential pollinators that contribute to the growth of native vegetation and agricultural crops.
Nesting habits vary among green bee species. Most excavate underground burrows, while some are communal and share a common nest entrance. Females construct brood cells and supply them with a mixture of pollen and nectar called bee bread. After laying an egg in the cell, the female seals it off to complete the nesting process.
Green bees emerge at various times throughout the warm season depending on the region. In cooler climates, there is typically one generation per year. Females overwinter as adults then become active again in early summer. The males and new females of the second generation emerge later in summer. In tropical zones, multiple generations can occur annually since the non-freezing weather enables year-round activity.
Watching metallic green bees dart from blossom to blossom in the garden is a special treat. These flashy insects contribute to our ecosystems as prolific pollinators with a distinct beauty all their own. Next time you spy a green bee sipping nectar atop a flower, take a moment to admire its bright emerald tones and appreciate the magic it brings to your outdoor space.
Green bees in the Augochlorina tribe
This tribe of bees includes:The Augochlora genus Augochlora is Greek for exceedingly green. Around 120 species are found in South America, 3 species in USA and 1 in Canada. Forage on a range of flowers. Nest mostly under bark and rotting wood. The Augochlorella genus Augochlorella is Greek for little Augochlora. The color range is copper to green. There are approximately 20 species worldwide, with 5 in the USA and 2 species known in Canada.
The Augochloropsis genus Augochloropsis is Greek for looking like Augochlora. Vibrant, shiny green bees. 3 species recorded in the USA and Canada. These bees nest in the soil.
The Pseudoaugochlora genus Pseudoaugochlora is Greek for false Augochlora. Only 1 species is known in the USA. There are 7 Pseudoaugochlora species recorded in Brazil2. In general, these bees are metallic green although of them may have tints of red, gold, blue or even black on some parts or most of the body2.
How do bee stingers work?
FAQ
Are green bees venomous?
Are green sweat bees aggressive?
Are green bees rare?
Are green bees pollinators?
Can bees be green?
Sweat bees, carpenter bees, and parasitic bees can be green. Most green bees are sweat bees. These are a type of bee often seen licking human sweat, mostly for its high salt content. Green bees are present in high numbers in states such as Texas and Florida. They can also be seen further north and on the Eastern Coast.
What are the effects of bee stings on arms and legs?
Bee stings are painful injuries. The pain usually only lasts for a few hours if you have a mild reaction. Symptoms on your skin like swelling, skin discoloration and itching may last for a few days following the sting.
What color is a green bee?
Blue and copper are some of the nuances of the main green color of the species come in. Red and yellow are rare undertones these green bees are sometimes seen in. The green undertones of the bees are influenced by their natural habitat. All bees of this species are small regardless of their caste as they grow up to 7mm.
What is a green sweat bee?
Green sweat bees, known for their distinctive metallic green bodies, are small, splendid insects that play a crucial role in pollination.
What is an example of a green bee?
One common example is the Agapostemon virescens, a striking green bee which mainly inhabits the Midwestern and Northeastern regions of the country, but can be spotted coast to coast. Another North American species is the Agapostemon melliventris, found across the United States and parts of Canada.
What does a metallic green bee do?
The Metallic Green Bee contributes to the ecosystem and encourages biodiversity by pollinating different types of flowers. Metallic green bees are generally small to medium in size, typically ranging from 0.2 to 0.5 inches (5 to 12 mm) in length. Their compact size aids them in accessing a variety of flowers for nectar and pollen foraging.