Western Large-headed Bee vs Malagasy Orchid Bee

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Western Large-headed Bee Malagasy Orchid Bee
Scientific Name Ctenocolletes smaragdinus Liotrigona madecassa
Order Hymenoptera Hymenoptera
Family Stenotritidae Apidae
Size 10-14 mm 3-5 mm
Habitat Heathland Farmland
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Western Australia Madagascar
Conservation Data Deficient Least Concern

Western Large-headed Bee

A metallic green bee endemic to Western Australia that belongs to the ancient family Stenotritidae. It nests in sandy soil and forages on native shrubs.

💡

Did You Know?

Its metallic green coloring is unusual for the Stenotritidae family, most of which are dull brown or black.

Malagasy Orchid Bee

A tiny stingless bee that is one of Madagascar's most important pollinators. It has a black body with pale wing membranes and forms colonies in hollow tree trunks.

💡

Did You Know?

Local communities harvest its honey, called 'tantely kely' in Malagasy, which is prized for its distinctive floral flavor and medicinal properties.