Lasioglossum

Genus Lasioglossum

Lasioglossum are relatively slim dark bees with light bands of hair on their abdomen, if any abdominal markings at all. Hair is on the top of each tergite, while in Halictus, hair bands are on the bottom.

Lasioglossum are widespread, abundant, and diverse in behavior. Many dig solitary ground nests; others nest communally; and some species form colonies or hives with hundreds to thousands of bees. At least some nest in tree cavities and logs, and some are reportedly nocturnal. The diversity of this genus is associated with specialization and relatively small ranges. Thus far, 24 species of Lasioglossum have been identified in the San Juan and Gulf Islands.