Orchid bees are predominantly solitary bee species of the the Euglossini tribe, within the bee family Apidae. These bees are found in forests from Mexico to south eastern Brazil. Easily distinguished from other bees by their extremely long thin tongues, which can equal twice the length of the body, and their bright metallic colouration.

Male orchid bees collect scents from orchids using specialised hairs on their front legs. They scrape essential oils to store in glands in their inflated hind legs. For several weeks males collect a species-specific mixture of these scented oils. Males gather in display sites known as "leks" on tree trunks to release the scents while buzzing, flying out from their tree, and returning. Although rarely observed, females seem to choose among males and mate with them in these territorial sites.