This species is very similar to several other Chlorandrena in Europe, particularly Andrena humilis. Females are predominantly dark in colour with a orange terminal fringe and yellow-orange hindleg hairs. They are typically smaller than Andrena humilis (under 10mm) with a duller, more strongly shagreened (roughened) abdomen, particularly on the second tergite (T2). Other features include a small row of spines along the hind femur and a fairly broad foveae which does not converge towards the ocelli. Males lack the white clypeus of Andrena humilis, but are similar to other species and best confirmed by examing the 8th sternite.
Distribution: Predominantly a Mediterranean species, occuring in Portugal, Spain, southern and western France, Italy, the Balkans, Greece, western Turkey and most larger Mediterranean islands. It is also found in Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and there is one Belgian record.
Flight Period: It appears to be univoltine, flying between March – June.
Habitat: Various habitats which are rich in yellow Asteraceae are used, including field margins, meadows, scrub, maquis, brownfield land and coastal dunes.
Flowers Visited: The females collect pollen from yellow composite flowers (Asteraceae).
Personal Records: I have recorded this species around southern Madrid. Here I encountered females foraging on yellow Asteraceae in brownfield land and road verges, even in rather urbanised places.