description Melipona compressipes Overview
Melipona compressipes, commonly called tiúba in parts of Brazil, is a eusocial stingless bee in the genus Melipona. It is native to northern and northeastern South America and is kept by some local communities in Brazil through meliponiculture, the management of stingless-bee colonies. The species is valued as a pollinator and as a source of honey, while its colonies retain defensive behaviors despite lacking the functional sting used by honey bees.
insights Ranking position
Melipona compressipes ranks #173 of 423 in the Bee ranking, behind Xenoglossa strenua, ahead of Bombus melanopygus.
help Melipona compressipes FAQ
What is Melipona compressipes commonly called?
*Melipona compressipes* is commonly known as tiúba in parts of Brazil. It is a eusocial stingless bee species in the genus *Melipona*.
Where is the tiúba bee native to?
This stingless bee is native to the northern and northeastern regions of South America. It is highly adapted to the tropical climates found in the Amazon basin and surrounding areas.
How is Melipona compressipes used by humans?
The species is kept by some local communities in Brazil through a practice called meliponiculture, which is the management of stingless-bee colonies. They are cultivated primarily for their unique honey, which is highly prized in traditional medicine.
Can Melipona compressipes sting humans?
No, *Melipona compressipes* is a stingless bee, meaning it does not possess a functional stinger for defense. Instead of stinging, they defend their nests by biting intruders or using sticky resins to trap them.
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