Colombia Confirms 738 Bee Species, Ranking Among South America’s Most Diverse Countries
Colombia is home to far more bee species than previously estimated. A scientific inventory, considered the most comprehensive study of these insects ever conducted in the country, has confirmed the presence of 738 species. This figure significantly exceeds the numbers reported in earlier research and provides a clearer picture of the diversity of these pollinators […]
Colombia has discovered 738 bee species, with 140 being unique to the country, making it the fourth most diverse in South America. The comprehensive study, led by a Penn State professor and doctoral student, surpasses previous estimates between 466 and 604 species. The research incorporated previously undocumented records and corrected historical data, providing a more accurate scientific foundation for future studies.
These findings emphasize the importance of protecting bee habitats, as they play a crucial role in pollination of wild plants and crops, maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting food production. The study identified 246 species not previously recorded and removed 109 species from historical lists due to insufficient evidence.
Colombia's bee diversity varies across regions, with the Andean region leading at 483 species, followed by Orinoquia (280), the Amazon (265), the Caribbean (222), and the Pacific (169). Antioquia, Meta, Cundinamarca, and Valle del Cauca lead in departmental diversity, though these numbers may be influenced by the number of studies conducted in these areas.
Only 57% of the recorded species are solitary and build nests above ground, unlike other regions where underground nesting is more common. Colombia may have over 1,000 bee species, with about 300 yet to be discovered or scientifically described.
Written by urgent.news from Colombia One's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
