Stingless bees in Argentina

Abstract

This contribution compiles current knowledge of stingless bees in Argentina. There are 33 species in 18 genera distributed in three areas. The highest diversity is found in the northeast, in the Paranaense forest, with 22 species, followed by the Yungas in the northwest, with 10 species. The Chaco, a xeromorphic central region, has the lowest diversity, with eight species. The most species-rich genera are Melipona and Plebeia. The traditional knowledge of stingless bees in Argentina is reflected in the many and accurate names by which different species have been known by diverse ethnic groups, such as the Guaraní, Guaycurú, Toba, Wichí, and Quichua peoples, as well as the criollos. Several species are harvested in the field, but mainly those of the genera Tetragonisca and Scaptotrigona are kept in rational hives. A review of the contributions on different aspects of the biology and ecology of meliponines in Argentina is presented. Further research is needed to elucidate the real number of species present in Argentina. Several aspects of the biology, multiplication and management of colonies, and handling of their products, merit also further studies. A better knowledge of the fauna will help decide which species can be selected for meliponiculture in specific areas.