What designation preceded Bombus flavidus historically for this species?

Bombus fernaldi

The historical designation for the insect now scientifically known as *Bombus flavidus* was *Bombus fernaldi*. This name was frequently referenced in older literature and historical data sets. The transition to *B. flavidus* reflects an ongoing process in science where new data leads to taxonomic refinement, suggesting a closer evolutionary relationship to a different lineage than previously recognized. For researchers and conservationists, managing this nomenclature shift is essential; they must carefully cross-reference historical records that used *B. fernaldi* with current field reports that utilize *B. flavidus* to ensure that species identification remains accurate for ongoing monitoring efforts, especially in areas like New Jersey or Montana where status tracking is vital.