Scientists Find Two New Bee Species in Arunachal Pradesh

Itanagar: Researchers from the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment in Bengaluru have identified two new solitary bee species. They found the insects during the Siang Expedition in Arunachal Pradesh. The team published their findings in the European Journal of Taxonomy.

The two species are Elaphropoda triangulata and Habropoda adi. Experts named the first for the triangular markings on its abdomen. They named the second to honor the Adi indigenous community. Both species are known only from a single male specimen. This makes the find rare.

Solitary bees do not live in hives. They nest alone. These bees are vital pollinators for crops and wild plants. Scientists warn that infrastructure projects and habitat loss threaten these insects. Further field studies will determine their distribution and ecological impact.

Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein praised the team. He noted the state acts as a global biodiversity hotspot. "The discovery of these two rare solitary bee species reflects Arunachal Pradesh’s extraordinary natural wealth and scientific importance. It also reinforces the need to conserve the fragile ecosystems of the Eastern Himalayas," Mein said.