A brand new species of bee with tiny horns has been discovered in Western Australia, adding to the country’s already impressive list of unique animals. The horned bee, named Megachile lucifer, was found by accident during a plant survey in the remote Bremer Range.
The discovery was made by Dr Kit Prendergast from Curtin University in Perth. While studying a rare and endangered wildflower, Dr Prendergast spotted the unusual insect visiting both the plant and a nearby mallee tree.
What made the bee stand out was the female’s small horn-like features on her face. Scientists think the horns could help with collecting pollen or resin, or even act as a form of defence.
To confirm the bee was a brand new species, the team ran DNA tests and compared it to other known bees. Nothing matched.
This is the first time in over 20 years that a new bee from this group has been identified. Dr Prendergast said the find highlights how much wildlife still remains undiscovered, especially in remote parts of the world.
The name Lucifer comes from the Latin word for “light bringer”, chosen not only because of the bee’s horned appearance but also to remind people about the importance of protecting native bees and endangered plants.
