The species limits within this genus are a bit murky, but as a genus they are distinctive. As currently understood, two species are known from Vermont, both of which have a strong preference for goldenrod and related composites.
Female Pseudopanurgus showing massive pollen balls stuck to the hind tibia
Genus level ID – Females are all black and relatively nondescript, though can be recognized by the wet pollen held in dense clumps on the hind tibia (a trait shared with Fairy Bees). Males have extensive yellow on the face.
Species-level ID – Only males are likely to be identified from photos, with the two species known from VT differing in the location of the yellow marks on their face.
Pseudopanurgus andrenoides
Superclypeus largely or entirely black.
Pseudopanurgus aestivalis
Superclypeus largely yellow. Appears less common than Pseudopanurgus andrenoides, and perhaps never photographed.
Unless otherwise specified, photos are copyright of Spencer Hardy
