Schizonotus Chalcid vs Smeathman's Furrow Bee

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Schizonotus Chalcid Smeathman's Furrow Bee
Scientific Name Schizonotus sieboldi Lasioglossum smeathmanellum
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Chalcididae Halictidae
Size 4-6 mm 4-5 mm
Habitat Woodlands Underground
Diet Parasitoids Nectar Feeders
Regions East Asia, Japan Europe, North Africa
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Schizonotus Chalcid

A parasitoid of mason bee larvae found across temperate Asia. It enters the sealed mud nests of Osmia bees to lay its eggs on the developing bee larvae.

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Did You Know?

It times its attack to coincide with the brief window when mason bee cells are sealed but larvae are still vulnerable.

Smeathman's Furrow Bee

One of the smallest bees in the world, this tiny metallic species nests in old mortar joints and earthen banks. It is surprisingly common in European towns and cities.

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Did You Know?

At just 4 mm long it is barely larger than a grain of rice and is frequently mistaken for a tiny fly.