Unveiling the Shiny Bees
Researchers have identified three new bee species from the Lasioglossum genus, collected from California, Arizona, and Baja California. These bees, notable for their metallic sheen, are named Lasioglossum (Sphecodogastra) iridescens, Lasioglossum (Sphecodogastra) dilisena, and Lasioglossum (Sphecodogastra) silveirai in honor of bee taxonomist Fernando Silveira.
The naming of Lasioglossum (Sphecodogastra) dilisena reflects a rare incorporation of a Sinhala word, meaning “shining.” This highlights the bee’s unique appearance and celebrates linguistic diversity in scientific nomenclature.
Thilina Hettiarachchi, a PhD student from Sri Lanka, played a pivotal role in this discovery. His supervisor, Jason Gibbs, emphasized the importance of descriptive and easily pronounced names that represent global diversity.
These newly described bees predominantly inhabit high-altitude regions in California, making them particularly vulnerable to climate change, which poses a significant threat to their survival.
Significant Contributions to Bee Taxonomy
Jason Gibbs, an expert in bee systematics, has extensively reviewed the Lasioglossum genus in North America. His research aims to address the taxonomic challenges posed by this diverse genus, which includes over 1,900 species.
While working on a revision of the L. (Hemihalictus) bees of Western North America, Hettiarachchi identified a problematic species complex within L. (Sphecodogastra). This discovery forms a crucial chapter in his thesis.
Some of the specimens examined were collected by Philip Hunter Timberlake, a relative of former U.S. President Richard Nixon. Timberlake’s notoriously difficult handwriting added a unique challenge to the research process.
- High-altitude habitat
- Metallic sheen
- Intricate taxonomy
The vast number of species within the Lasioglossum genus often leads to misidentifications, underscoring the importance of meticulous taxonomy in understanding bee biodiversity.
The Threats Facing Pollinators
Pollinators like bees are crucial for biodiversity, yet they face numerous threats, from habitat loss to various pollutants. Herbicides and insecticides are well-known dangers, but recent studies highlight the impact of fungicides on bees’ microbial interactions.
Climate change further exacerbates these threats, disrupting the environmental cues bees rely on. While some bees can migrate, those in higher elevations, such as the newly described species, face limited options, making them more vulnerable.
In Sri Lanka, the need for more research on wild bees is emphasized. While the country is home to 159 wild bee species, most research focuses on a few commercially important species.
Solitary bees, which constitute over 95% of wild bees and do not form hives, play a vital role in pollination. They nest in ground burrows or wood cavities, highlighting the need for diverse habitats to support their survival.
Comparing Research Efforts
Compared to North America, Sri Lanka shows a significant disparity in entomological research. While North American species are well-documented, many species in Sri Lanka await discovery and identification.
North America’s well-curated museum collections and active entomological societies foster ongoing research and collaboration among scientists and students.
In Sri Lanka, efforts to promote pollinator-friendly landscapes include planting nectar-rich trees and advocating for solitary bee hotels, which provide essential nesting habitats.
These bee hotels, made from materials like wood and bamboo, offer tunnels and cavities for female bees to lay their eggs. Properly placed in gardens, they attract and support these crucial pollinators.
grace8
Bee hotels sound like a cool idea! Does anyone know how to make one at home?
toby
It’s a shame that climate change is hitting these bees so hard. What can be done to mitigate this? 🤔
rosevoyager
Are there any initiatives already in place to protect these newly discovered species?
Caleb_Illusion
Thank you for highlighting the research efforts in Sri Lanka as well! Great job to the team!
leah
Interesting read, but why haven’t we heard more about these bees before? 🌸
layla1
Wow, shiny bees? That’s incredible! How can we help protect them from climate change?