Honeycomb fossil in Dominican Amber: a unique discovery
The honeycomb-like structure in Dominican amber is a subject of debate among researchers. While some argue it could have been constructed by social wasps, the prevailing consensus suggests it was likely made by a stingless bee species from the genus Melipona (Apidae: Meliponini). Key details about the specimen: Significance: This fossil nest provides rare insights into the behavior of ancient bees, particularly their social nesting habits. If confirmed as Melipona, it would reinforce the evolutionary longevity of advanced eusocial traits in stingless bees. The debate underscores the importance of verifying amber provenance and using precise morphological analysis to distinguish between bees and wasps in fossils. For further study, examining the…


