A team of Australian scientists announced the discovery of 71 new species of bees in May 2025. These bees belong to the genus Megachile (Austrochile), also known as resin pot bees. These insects are endemic to Australia and are found across all states and territories except Tasmania.
These bee species build resin pots to protect their brood, with solitary mother bees hanging their pots individually from twigs or as clusters on the bark of trees. There are around 1,700 known native bee species in Australia. This discovery raises the number of known resin pot bee species to 78.
Dr. James Dorey from the University of Wollongong says more research is needed to understand what threats resin pot bees might be facing. He notes that these species may have limited ranges. More information about their presence or population sizes is needed to make informed decisions about their conservation status.