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Tetragonisca angustula

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description Tetragonisca angustula Overview

Tetragonisca angustula, commonly known as jataí, is a species of stingless bee native to South America. This small bee is notable for its unique social structure and sophisticated defense mechanisms involving hovering guard bees protecting its nest. It's an extant species found in urban environments and is particularly relevant to researchers studying social insect behavior and pollination ecology.

help Tetragonisca angustula FAQ

Why is Tetragonisca angustula called a stingless bee?

Its worker sting is reduced and cannot deliver the kind of sting associated with Apis honey bees. Jatai workers can still defend the nest by biting, applying sticky substances, and confronting intruders at the entrance.

How do jatai guard bees protect their nest?

Some guards stand at the narrow entrance tube while others hover nearby and inspect approaching insects. Research on Tetragonisca angustula has shown that colonies can assign larger workers to defensive roles.

Where is Tetragonisca angustula kept for honey?

The species is native to the Neotropics and is widely kept in parts of Brazil and neighboring regions through meliponiculture. Its jatai honey is produced in much smaller quantities than honey from Apis mellifera.

What does a Tetragonisca angustula nest entrance look like?

Colonies commonly build a narrow projecting tube from wax and plant resins. The small opening is easier for guards to control and is often the most visible sign of a nest hidden in a tree cavity or wall.

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