Pollinators
A tiny native bee with devil-like facial horns, named Megachile lucifer, has been discovered in Western Australia's Goldfields region. The species was identified during surveys of a critically endangered wildflower. This find highlights gaps in knowledge about native pollinators amid threats like mining.
Reported by AI
New research reveals that bumble bees often prevail in direct confrontations with invasive Argentine ants at feeding sites, but these encounters lead to prolonged aggression that reduces their food collection. This added pressure exacerbates challenges for bumble bee colonies already facing habitat loss, diseases, and pesticides. The study highlights how such interactions could impact these vital pollinators.
October 23, 2025 13:35