Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have documented a rare species of Himalayan bee in Arunachal Pradesh, marking the first recorded instance of this species in India. The solitary bee, identified as Colletes bhutanicus, was discovered during a recent survey in the Tawang district. This finding expands the previously known distribution of the species, which had only been reported in Bhutan and China.

The documentation of this species is crucial for understanding the diverse pollinator populations inhabiting the eastern Himalayas. This region, while rich in biodiversity, has largely gone unexplored in terms of its bee species, making this discovery particularly significant.

The ZSI team involved in this finding included Dibyajyoti Ghosh, K A Subramanian, and Dhriti Banerjee, who all contributed to the identification and study of this rare bee.

Unique Behaviour and Ecological Role of Colletes Bees

Unlike the more commonly known honeybee, which forms large colonies, Colletes bhutanicus is a solitary bee. Individual bees build and maintain their own nests rather than residing in a communal hive. Despite their independent nature, these bees hold a vital ecological role as pollinators.

While visiting various flowering plants to collect nectar and pollen, they facilitate plant reproduction and enhance the productivity of flowering crops. The newly discovered bee has been observed at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,800 metres, interacting with approximately 25 species of flowering plants, such as mustard, buckwheat, coriander, beans, chilli, and eggplant.

This interaction with both wild flora and cultivated crops provides researchers with valuable insights and highlights the ecological interdependencies present in mountain environments.

Implications of the Discovery for Biodiversity and Conservation

The species Colletes bhutanicus had previously been documented in regions of Bhutan and China, specifically in Xizang, where it has been identified at several high-altitude locations, including areas above 3,800 metres. The discovery of this bee in Tawang now extends its known geographical range into India, further contributing to the understanding of Himalayan pollinator diversity.

Arunachal Pradesh presents a unique landscape characterised by significant variations in altitude, climate, and vegetation. Many remote mountainous areas remain under-surveyed, which can result in numerous species existing undocumented for extended periods. The findings underscore the necessity for ongoing biodiversity surveys, particularly in the state’s less accessible regions.

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein expressed pride in this discovery, noting its potential implications for the agricultural practices in mountainous areas. However, for researchers, the significance of documenting such findings extends beyond a single species; understanding their habitats and the plants they interact with can help reveal more about the ecological networks that sustain the Himalayan region.

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