Sphecodopsis minutissima (Cockerell, 1933)

Sphecodopsis minutissima (Cockerell, 1933) View in CoL

Fig. 108 View Fig

Morgania (Omachthes) minutissima Cockerell, 1933a: 379 , holotype ♀ (type locality: Aliwal North, South Africa) (NHML) examined.

Morgania (Pseudopasitess) rufula Cockerell, 1933a: 382–383 , holotype ♀ (type locality: 38 miles E of Ceres, South Africa) (NHML) examined.

Diagnosis

The female of S. minutissima can be separated from that of all other species of the genus by the combination of the following characters: S6 bifid posteriorly, apical notch about as long as its apical width ( Fig. 108E View Fig ); Metasoma partially red ( Fig. 108B View Fig ); fore tibia and tarsi completely or largely red ( Fig. 108A View Fig ); Head only slightly wider than long, vertex conspicuously raised and rounded ( Fig. 108C View Fig ). Males were not available for study (see Eardley & Brothers 1997).

This characteristic species was described in detail by Eardley & Brothers (1997). Thus, to facilitate the identification only images are provided ( Fig. 108 View Fig ) without repeating the description.

Additional material examined

None.

Distribution

Only known from the type localities in central South Africa ( Eardley & Brothers 1997).

Host bees

Unknown.

Seasonal activity

November–January ( Eardley & Brothers 1997).

Comment

The additional specimens mentioned by Eardley & Brothers (1997) are misidentifications and represent other species.