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Agapostemon texanus
The genus Agapostemon is a common group of Western hemisphere sweat bees of generally green or blue appearance (head and thorax always, sometimes also the abdomen in some females). There are some 45 species in the genus, ranging from Canada to Argentina. They superficially resemble various members of the tribe Augochlorini, which are typically metallic greenish in appearance. Members of this genus are commonly referred to as metallic green bees. Wikipedia
Marin County Civic Center landscape area, San Rafael, CA.
Spotted on Aug 6, 2012
Submitted on Sep 3, 2012
12 Comments
Yes! This is my favorite bee--little flying jewels!
My favorite color...green!
Thank you vitthal.py!
Juan: I received confirmation that this is a female Agapostemon texanus. The other bee species that is similar (Augochlorella sp) is apparently smaller and not seen in this area of California.
I am certain it is a Agapostemon sp and almost certain it is Agapostemon texanus, but I am not an expert. If you believe it is another species, let me know and I will investigate. There is a local bee expert in the Bay Area and I can try to send him the photo for confirmation.
Hi Misako. I dont't want to be negative, but Halictid bees are extremely hard to identify. Even using a microscope is not easy to make a determination to genus.
Are you sure this bee belong to Agapostemon genus and to this specie?
Thanks for reminding me about the tarantulas at Mt. Diablo. I managed to see one lone male last year. But will plan to head up there this month. I will also check out the bull frogs!
Happy Anniversary too!
Mt Diablo is getting exciting. You must visit Bull Frog Pond . There are tons of Bull Frogs in there. Also it has a lot of variety of lichen and wasps. Bunnies,raptors,lots of quails! I finally saw the home of the Acorn wood pecker in an oak tree. Also a Rattle snake from the way back from Bull Frog Pond. Tarantula season is here. Bull Frog pond will not disappoint you.
Thank you OnengDyah. It is my favorite bee species.
Thank you Emma! I also reached my PN year anniversary.
Nice pic Misako..pretty bee..
Awesome Bee.Really pretty!
Also Congratulations for passing 1000 spottings! Thanks for sharing such enjoyable spottings!