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A new species of osmiine bee has been discovered by European researchers, with a unique distribution that spans the Mercantour National Park in the French Alps and mountainous regions in Turkey and Northern Iraq. This significant biogeographic disjunction, spanning over 2000 km, highlights the species’ narrow ecological niche and vulnerability to climate change and agricultural practices.
The newly described species, Hoplitis onosmaevae, has been found exclusively in these disparate regions and demonstrates distinct ecological traits, such as its nesting behavior in dead wood. Its long proboscis is likely an adaptation for collecting nectar from the long-tubed flowers of the Onosma genus, which it exclusively harvests pollen from.
Described in the open-access journal Alpine Entomology, this new bee species has important implications for conservation due to its highly specialized ecological niche and vulnerability to habitat changes. The researchers emphasize the need for detailed conservation plans in the southwestern Alps to ensure the survival of Hoplitis onosmaevae. Their proposals for initial conservation steps can be found in the full research paper.
Research paper
Aubert M, Müller A, Praz C (2024) A new osmiine bee with a spectacular geographic disjunction: Hoplitis (Hoplitis) onosmaevae sp. nov. (Hymenoptera, Anthophila, Megachilidae). Alpine Entomology 8: 65-79. https://doi.org/10.3897/alpento.8.118039
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Wow, nature’s connections are truly incredible!
Emily: This discovery highlights the importance of conservation efforts across borders.