Scientists at Curtin University unveil a new horned bee, Megachile lucifer, found in Western Australia. Discovery emphasizes biodiversity conservation amid mining threats. #BeeDiscovery #AustraliaWildlife #Biodiversity #Conservation #NewSpecies | RON

Australia is home to over 1,700 species of native bees, with more than 300 found in South Australia alone. These bees display remarkable nesting diversity—some, like Lasioglossum and other Halictidae, burrow into sandy soils or clay banks, while others, such as Hylaeus and Megachile, prefer to nest in natural cavities within dead wood, reeds, grass stems, or pithy twigs. Many also repurpose old beetle tunnels or cracks in natural materials, highlighting the importance of habitat variety in susta