European Xiphydriid vs Spined Sweat Bee
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | European Xiphydriid | Spined Sweat Bee |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Xiphydria longicollis | Agapostemon splendens |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Xiphydriidae | Halictidae |
| Size | 12-18 mm | 9-12 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Ponds & Lakes |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
European Xiphydriid
A slender wood wasp with a notably elongated pronotum giving it a long-necked appearance. The body is dark with pale lateral spots on the abdomen.
Did You Know?
The elongated 'neck' that gives xiphydriids their distinctive appearance is actually an elongation of the pronotum, unique among wood wasps.
Spined Sweat Bee
A brilliantly iridescent green sweat bee with bluish reflections found in the eastern United States. Both sexes are entirely metallic green, unlike many other Agapostemon species.
Did You Know?
It strongly prefers nesting in moist or damp soil near water, unlike most other sweat bees that prefer drier substrates.