Dr Kit Prendergast from Curtin University’s School of Molecular and Life Sciences made one such discovery in 2019. He even discovered a new species of bee, which he dubbed the “Lucifer” bee. This unique bee, scientifically classified as Megachile (Hackeriapis) lucifer, was identified while Prendergast was surveying a critically endangered wildflower in Western Australia. On Tuesday, they told the world about this extraordinary find. It raised awareness not just for the highly endangered species, but for the environment that it calls home.
In terms of looks, the “Lucifer” bee earned its name with truly fiendish appearance, devilish horns distinguishing these gnarly pollinators from all other bees. The female variant sports particularly cute little horns on her face. This unique quality of the monarch has fascinated scientists and observers for centuries. This close-up photograph shot by Prendergast shows off the bee’s colorful characteristics, and its importance to the environment.
Prendergast’s discovery is more than an opportunity to catalogue a new species. It raises a fundamental issue of protecting unknown species in ecosystems threatened by mining operations. He noted, “Many mining companies still don’t survey for native bees, so we may be missing undescribed species, including those that play crucial roles in supporting threatened plants and ecosystems.” This assertion highlights the need to prevent adverse industrial-related impacts on biodiversity.
The story of the “Lucifer” bee goes beyond capturing the world’s attention and bringing focus to a cause. Prendergast expressed his concerns about the risks involved in losing native bees without proper identification and understanding of their habitat. “Without knowing which native bees exist and what plants they depend on, we risk losing both before we even realize they’re there,” he stated. This illustrates how important it is to do proper environmental surveys before infrastructure projects start.
The finding of the “Lucifer” bee adds to the story of the unique biodiversity found in Western Australia. It serves as a wakeup call to the long overdue need to defend these endangered ecosystems. Scientific researchers and environmentalists alike are excitedly discovering these new environments. Yet, in finding these unknown species, they are bringing ecological balance and health to light.