A taxonomic revision of subgenus Andrena (Chlorandrena) (Hymenoptera: Andrenidae: Andrena) of India

Abstract

In India Andrena (Chlorandrena) subgenus is represented by only one species, Andrena (Chlorandrena) taraxaci Giraud, 1861. The present investigation was aimed to redescribe this species with new taxonomic technologies and methods, provide diagnostic characters for this subgenus and to establish species key. In the present investigation Andrena taraxaci was redescribe from India for the first time along with photographs with advance microscopic technologies i.e., LEICA DFC 425C stereo-zoom microscope using LAS3.8 software. Identification keys of male and female were also provided for easy and fast identification. Moreover, diagnostic characters for this subgenus were established for Indian species. This kind of investigation helps in further improvement of taxonomic science especially Indian perspective.