Alfalfa Leafcutter Bee vs Small Rivulet
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Alfalfa Leafcutter Bee | Small Rivulet |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Megachile rotundata | Perizoma alchemillata |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Megachilidae | Geometridae |
| Size | 7-9 mm | 18-22 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Farmland | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | North America, Europe, introduced to other regions | Europe |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
Alfalfa Leafcutter Bee
A small solitary bee that cuts precise circular pieces from leaves to construct nest cells. It is the most important managed pollinator of alfalfa seed crops in North America.
Did You Know?
Alfalfa seed yields increased up to 1,000% when this bee was introduced as a managed pollinator.
Small Rivulet
A delicate small moth found in damp habitats where hemp agrimony grows. The larvae feed inside the flowers. Has subtle grey and white wing markings.
Did You Know?
The larvae develop entirely within hemp agrimony flower heads, emerging only to pupate.