A rare Honeybee nest has been discovered inside a majestic 500-year-old River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) revealing an endemic honeybee species with potentially significant ecological and cultural contributions.
Located in the floodplains of southeastern Australia, the tree is estimated to be over five centuries old and measuring 10.4 metres (34 feet) in circumference. A natural hollow, shaped over time acts as a sanctuary for the native Honeybee.
This ancient tree homes potentially one the longest continuing generation of honeybees and scientists are now exploring how this population may represent a unique species or distinct subspecies one that may has evolved through long-term coevolution with native Australian flora such as this ancient River Red Gum.
While early observations reveal similarities to Apis species, these bees exhibit notable differences in nesting behaviour and morphology as well as a proven resistance.
This discovery signifies the importance of preserving old-growth habitat trees as a living home to pollinators.