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Lasioglossum marginatum

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description Lasioglossum marginatum Overview

Lasioglossum marginatum is a species of sweat bee belonging to the family Halictidae, described by Gaspard Auguste Brullé in 1832. Native to the Palearctic region, including Europe, this insect is notable for its highly eusocial and unusual multi-year colony cycle. Unlike most other temperate sweat bees, its colonies persist for up to four years, with a long-lived queen that overwinters multiple times. Reproductive males and queens only emerge late in the colony's lifespan to mate and initiate the cycle anew.

help Lasioglossum marginatum FAQ

What is unusual about Lasioglossum marginatum's colony cycle?

Unlike most sweat bees, Lasioglossum marginatum can maintain a highly eusocial colony over multiple years. Its colonies are associated with a cycle of worker broods separated by long resting periods, reportedly producing a cycle of about six years.

Where is Lasioglossum marginatum found?

It is a Palearctic sweat bee found across parts of Europe and nearby regions. The species belongs to the family Halictidae and was described by Gaspard Auguste Brullé in 1832.

Is Lasioglossum marginatum solitary or social?

It is unusual among sweat bees because it is primitively eusocial rather than strictly solitary. A queen and successive worker broods share the nest during its extended colony cycle.

How does Lasioglossum marginatum differ from a typical annual bee colony?

A typical solitary bee completes its nesting activity within one season, whereas Lasioglossum marginatum can carry social organization across several years. Its long inactive intervals and repeated worker production are the key biological distinction.

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