Stingless Bees
They won’t sting
Where can they be found?
Many different bee species feel at home in the tropics and subtropics. A group of bees form the stingless bees (Meliponines), which can very often be discovered on a wide variety of flowers. They can be found in Latin America (77%), the Indo-Malay/ Australasian region (16%) and Africa (7%) and belong to the corbiculate bees (Hymenoptera, Apidae), as do the bumble bees (Bombini), the honey bees (Apini) and the orchid bees (Euglossini).
How many species do exist?
The variety within the stingless bees is very high as there exist round about 500 different species on our planet. When you take a closer look you will recognize the variety in shape, size, color and so on, which is different from species to species and even in their behaviour. All depending on different parameters like colony size, nesting behaviour and developed defense techniques. Some of them are black ones, black ones with golden wings, some with fur or without fur and so on.
How do they defend themselves?
Since they don’t have a sting to defend themselves, they have developed various defense mechanisms, which can be different from species to species. The main part of Latin America Indo-Malay/Australasian Africa 7% 16 % 77 % defense mechanism is presented by biting. All of the species have developed the ability of biting, though just some take really advantage of it to defend themselves. Other ones prefer to build complex nest structures, such as fake tunnels and entrance blocks to confuse their enemies. Enemies can be ants, certifies flies, ant-eaters, lizards, spiders etc.
Where do they live?
Colonies often nest in tree cavities, branches, rocks, walls, in ant and termite nests above and below ground or self-built, exposed nests in trees. They collect and mix different material to build their nest and strengthen its structure.
The role of bees in tropical reforestation
In tropical reforestation, bees play a pivotal role as pollinators, essential for the reproduction of diverse plant species. They facilitate the growth of pioneer plants crucial for forest regeneration and support ecosystem biodiversity and resilience. Their contribution is vital for seed production, indirectly aiding in seed dispersal and ensuring the health and recovery of tropical forests. Protecting bee populations is thus integral to effective reforestation and ecosystem conservation efforts.