Aphytis Wasp vs Broad-faced Sweat Bee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Aphytis Wasp | Broad-faced Sweat Bee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Aphytis melinus | Lasioglossum platycephalum |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Aphelinidae | Halictidae |
| Size | 0.8-1.2 mm | 7-9 mm |
| Habitat | Orchards | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Parasitoids | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Worldwide citrus-growing regions | Europe |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Near Threatened |
Aphytis Wasp
A tiny golden-yellow parasitoid wasp that is the primary biocontrol agent of California red scale on citrus. It lays eggs beneath the scale cover where its larva feeds externally on the host.
Did You Know?
California produces over one billion of these wasps per year for release in citrus orchards.
Broad-faced Sweat Bee
A rare and distinctive European furrow bee with an unusually broad, flattened head. It nests in sandy or gravelly soils and has become scarce throughout much of its range.
Did You Know?
Its flattened head shape is thought to be an adaptation for more efficiently excavating nest tunnels in compacted sandy soil.