Scientists have calculated for the first time how many species of bees exist on the planet. It turns out there may be more of them than expected. A study by evolutionary biologists at the University of Wollongong (Australia) said there are 3,700 – 5,200 species of bees on Earth that science still does not know about.
The total number of bee species is estimated to be between 24,705 and 26,164. The study is based on global datasets, taxonomy, national checklists and literature as well as statistical estimates of species diversity. They managed to cover 186 countries.
The results show that there are relatively few bee species that have not been studied in Europe. This is especially true for Sweden and Switzerland. But Türkiye may be home to 843 pollinator species that have yet to be discovered and named.
Island countries are home to a richer diversity of bee species than mainland countries. Scientists emphasize that the archipelago is home to a large number of endemic species but that they are most affected by climate change. This situation shows the importance of environmental protection measures.
The authors point out that since 1960, scientists have discovered and named an average of 117 new bee species each year. At this rate, it will take about 35 to 40 years to completely close the knowledge gap.
Scientists note that bees are keystone species of the ecosystem. Their diversity strengthens a healthy environment and sustainable agriculture. Knowing how many species live in a place will shape how we approach conservation, land management and even scientific questions about evolution and ecology, Nature Communications reports.
Previously, an unusual species of ant was found in Japan. All insects have a queen. They have a parasitic lifestyle.
