Overview
- The Journal of Hymenoptera Research formally names Megachile (Hackeriapis) lucifer from specimens collected in 2019 in the Bremer Range between Norseman and Hyden.
- DNA barcoding confirmed male and female specimens are the same species and unmatched in databases, marking the first new Hackeriapis member described in more than 20 years.
- Only females carry upward-pointing horns about 0.9 millimeters long, with unconfirmed functions that may include flower access, resource competition or nest defense.
- The bee was observed visiting the Critically Endangered Marianthus aquilonaris, and researchers label it a potential conservation concern after follow-up surveys in 2022 and 2024 did not relocate it.
- Scientists highlight gaps in mining-related environmental surveys for native bees and call for targeted monitoring and habitat protection in the Goldfields during Australian Pollinator Week.