Sphecodes distinguendus VON HAGENS 1874
Widely distributed in England, from Dorset to Kent and north to Lincolnshire. Also recorded from the Channel Islands (Sark).
Listed as Rare (RDB3) in Shirt (1987) and as Notable A by Falk (1991).
This Sphecodes has been found in a variety of habitats on light soils, including sandy heath, soft rock cliffs, sandpits and occasionally on calcareous grassland (Falk 1991).
Late May to mid September, but there is no information available on the flight periods of the two sexes.
The parasitic behaviour has not been observed and the host has not been ascertained. The parasite has been captured near burrows of Lasioglossum prasinum on sandy heath but is found outside the range of this mining bee. Some Andrena species have been implicated as hosts, including A. argentata, A. dorsata (second brood) and A. barbilabris.
Apiaceae and Asteraceae are visited for nectar only in Britain, whilst abroad, heather has additionally been found to be used.
No information available.
Profile written:
Proofed: January 2012