Which group is known for a metallic body color among sweat bees?

Which group is known for a metallic body color among sweat bees?

• A. Sphecidae
• B. Halictidae
• C. Ixodidae
• D. Sphingidae

Answer: (B)

Metallic body color is a characteristic feature of many sweat bees in the family Halictidae. This group includes bees that often have shiny metallic greens or blues, with the genus Agapostemon being a classic example of this metallic look. The name “sweat bees” comes from their tendency to visit human perspiration, but the metallic sheen helps distinguish Halictidae from other insects. The other groups listed are not sweat bees: Sphecidae are thread-waisted wasps, Ixodidae are ticks, and Sphingidae are hawk moths, none of which typify the metallic coloration seen in Halictidae.

Metallic body color is a characteristic feature of many sweat bees in the family Halictidae. This group includes bees that often have shiny metallic greens or blues, with the genus Agapostemon being a classic example of this metallic look. The name “sweat bees” comes from their tendency to visit human perspiration, but the metallic sheen helps distinguish Halictidae from other insects. The other groups listed are not sweat bees: Sphecidae are thread-waisted wasps, Ixodidae are ticks, and Sphingidae are hawk moths, none of which typify the metallic coloration seen in Halictidae.