Stingless bees (Apidae: Apinae: Meliponini) from Bolivia: an approach to the richness and geographical distribution

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compile an updated species inventory of stingless bees (Apidae: Apinae: Meliponini) in Bolivia, considering geographic, taxonomic, historical and ecoregional aspects. Adjustments in the systematics of stingless bees and geographic data corrections were made through exhaustive analysis of the available information. The results reveal the presence of 121 species in Bolivia, distributed in 19 valid genera, these findings are based on 616 records spanning from 1932 to 2022. Notably, the species richness of meliponinos bee’s is particularly high below 1,000 meters (> 90% species). The Yungas and southwestern Amazonia were identified as the most diverse ecoregion, with 90% of the species. This study´s significance lies in advancing the understanding of the bee diversity, and fostering collaboration among institutions and researcher community. Moreover, the gathered information aims to support meliponiculture initiatives by helping stakeholders identify and manage species within their respective ecoregion.