Definition

Noun: - A family of small, often solitary bees within the order Hymenoptera. Many species within this family are important pollinators for agricultural crops.

Usage Notes

• "Halictidae" is a scientific, taxonomic term used in entomology and biology. It is always treated as a singular noun when referring to the family as a single taxonomic group (e.g., ). In common usage, it is often used with a plural verb to refer to its members collectively (e.g., ).
• It is typically capitalized as it is a proper noun representing a formal family name.

Examples

• As a taxonomic family:
  • The Halictidae includes numerous species commonly known as sweat bees.
  • Researchers are studying the foraging behavior of Halictidae.
• Referring to its members:
  • These halictidae are attracted to human perspiration.
  • Many halictidae nest in the ground.

Advanced Usage

• In ecological and agricultural contexts, the term is used to highlight the group's ecological role.
  • The contribution of Halictidae to pollination services is often underestimated.

Variants and Related Words

• Halictid (noun/adjective): A common shorthand term for a bee belonging to the family Halictidae, or used as an adjective (e.g., ).
  • The garden was buzzing with halictids.
• Sweat bee (noun): A common name for many bees in the Halictidae family, derived from their attraction to human sweat.
  • A sweat bee landed on my arm.

Synonyms

• Sweat bees: This is the most common general synonym, though it refers specifically to those species attracted to sweat.
• Small solitary bees: A descriptive synonym highlighting key characteristics.

Related Terms (Not direct synonyms but contextually linked)

• Pollinator: A functional role filled by many Halictidae.
• Apoidea: The superfamily that contains Halictidae and other bees.
• Hymenoptera: The insect order that includes Halictidae, ants, wasps, and sawflies.

Noun

1. a family of small solitary bees; many are valuable pollinators for agriculture