Tetragonula nagalandensis

Tetragonula nagalandensis Latest News

Recently, scientists have discovered a new species of stingless honey bee and named it Tetragonula nagalandensis.

About Tetragonula nagalandensis

• It is a species of stingless honey bee discovered in Nagaland.
• The name nagalandensis was chosen as a tribute to the state of Nagaland, where the bee was first discovered in the Medziphema region.
• It brings the total number of known stingless bee species in the country to 19.
• Their unique reproductive anatomy provides the fingerprint needed for identification.
• Characteristics
  • Morphology: Under a microscope, the researchers found distinct differences in the male’s underside and reproductive organs, specifically a C-shaped notch and a sharply curved penis valve.
  • It is notably smaller, with a body length of about 5 millimetres.
  • Unlike common honey bees that build hives in trees or buildings, these bees are subterranean, living under the soil.
  • Its home is also unique; as it builds compact clusters of brood cells protected by several thin layers of wax and organic material to survive the damp, underground environment.
• Ecological Role: Stingless bees are vital pollinators for local crops and wild vegetation.

Source: RM

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