UJAT researchers document over 100 bee species in Tabasco

Researchers from the Universidad Juárez Autónoma de Tabasco (UJAT) have documented more than 100 species of bees in the state of Tabasco, Mexico. Following a year of fieldwork in the Wanha’ Biosphere Reserve in Balancán, the study identified various types of bees, including stingless social bees of the Melipona and Trigona genera, carpenter bees (Xylocopa), orchid bees (Euglossa), and bumblebees (Bombus).

These species play a critical role in the ecosystem by pollinating regional crops such as cacao, achiote, pumpkin, and chicozapote, as well as timber trees like mahogany and cedar. The findings include 12 new records for the state and three potentially undescribed species currently undergoing identification.

Researchers warned that habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use threaten these essential pollinators. To mitigate these risks, UJAT has proposed conservation plans involving biological corridors, pollinator gardens in schools, and the promotion of meliponiculture. The university also plans to host workshops for students and producers to support these conservation efforts.