Stingless bees, or meliponines, encompass a diverse group of approximately 462 to 552 species within the tribe Meliponini, belonging to the family Apidae . These bees are primarily distributed across tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Africa, Asia, Australia, and the America
Global Distribution and Notable Species
Africa
- Meliponula: Found in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in tropical forests and savannahs.
- Hypotrigona: Present in tropical regions, including Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which hosts at least five stingless bee species .
Asia and Australia
- Tetragonula carbonaria and Austroplebeia australis: Common in Australia, especially around Brisbane.
- Tetragonisca angustula: Widespread in Southeast Asia and parts of Australia.
- Trigona and Melipona species: Found in Southeast Asia and parts of Australia
The Americas
- Tetragonisca angustula: Common in Central and South America.
- Melipona quadrifasciata: Found in Brazil.
- Scaptotrigona postica: Present in parts of South America.
- Frieseomelitta varia: Found in Brazil.
Honey-Producing Genera
The following genera are notable for their honey production:
- Tetragonisca: Known for species like T. angustula, which are widely kept in meliponiculture.
- Scaptotrigona: Includes S. postica, a major pollinator and honey producer.
- Melipona: Species such as M. quadrifasciata are valued for their honey.
- Frieseomelitta: F. varia is known for its high-quality honey.
Summary Table
| Region | Genera/Species Examples | Notable Traits |
|---|---|---|
| Africa | Meliponula, Hypotrigona | Diverse species, some endemic |
| Asia & Australia | Tetragonula, Austroplebeia | Adapted to various climates |
| Americas | Tetragonisca, Scaptotrigona, Melipona, Frieseomelitta | High honey yield, cultural significance |