Researchers Identify Nine New Solitary Bee Species in Kerala

Researchers from the **Shadpada Entomology Research Lab** at **Christ College (Autonomous)** in **Irinjalakuda**, Kerala, have documented nine species of solitary bees, marking a significant contribution to the region’s biodiversity. This discovery, detailed in the **Journal of Insect Biodiversity and Systematics** (Vol. 11, Issue 3, March 2025), highlights the presence of the subfamily **Nomiinae** (Hymenoptera: Halictidae) in Kerala for the first time.

Solitary bees differ from social honeybees by living independently. Each female constructs and provisions her own nest, which may not produce honey but plays an essential role in ecosystems. “Solitary bees are vital pollinators. They play an equally important role as honeybees in sustaining ecosystems and boosting agricultural productivity,” stated **Dr. Bijoy C.**, Assistant Professor and Head of the Lab.

Among the newly identified species are **Austronomia capitata**, **Austronomia goniognatha**, **Austronomia ustula**, **Gnathonomia argenteobalteata**, **Hoplonomia incerta**, **Lipotriches torrida**, **Lipotriches exagens**, **Lipotriches minutula**, and **Lipotriches pulchriventris**. Notably, **Lipotriches torrida** has been found outside its original habitat for the first time, while **Gnathonomia argenteobalteata** reemerges after more than a century since its last recorded sighting in India.

Significance of the Findings

These findings place Kerala prominently on the global map regarding Nomiinae diversity, with the state now hosting **42 species** of this subfamily. This figure represents **50.6%** of the known Nomiinae fauna in India and **87.7%** in South India. The nesting activities of these bees contribute significantly to soil health by improving aeration, moisture retention, and fertility.

The research team, which included doctoral students **Athul Sankar C.**, **Vishnu A. V.**, and **Anju Sara Prakash**, collaborated closely with **Dr. Shaji E. M.**, Professor and Head of the Zoology Department at **K. K. T. M. Govt. College, Pullut**. Their work was supported by funding from the **Kerala State Council for Science, Technology, and Environment (KSCSTE)** and the **University Grants Commission (UGC)** under the Government of India.

As biodiversity continues to face threats from climate change and habitat loss, these discoveries underscore the importance of research in identifying and protecting lesser-known species that play crucial roles in our ecosystems. The findings not only enrich Kerala’s biodiversity records but also enhance understanding of pollinator dynamics, vital for agricultural sustainability and ecosystem health.