In Minnesota, there are two described species within the genus Epimelissodes (formerly Svastra). Both species are uncommon to rare. Bees in this genus resemble Melissodes but are generally larger in size. Epimelissodes nest in the ground and have solitary nests. One of the two species in Minnesota, Epimelissodes obliqua, is a pollen specialist of late summer-blooming plants in the family Asteraceae. Epimelissodes females collect pollen on long hairs on their hind leg tibiae. 

Epimelissodes males have a brightly colored (white or light yellow) clypeus and long antennae. Both males and females have oval tegulae, a long glossa (tongue), a head that is as wide as the thorax, and a tuft of hairs on the metanotum (rear section of the thorax). Males have blue-green eyes and light-colored mandibles. Note: It is very difficult to tell Epimelissodes apart from Melissodes from an observation or photograph. Melissodes are much more common however, and both genera are active at the same time. Epimelissodes range in length from 10 to 21 mm (0.39 to 0.83 inches).