Story perspectives

New Horned Bee Species Discovered in Western Australia

11/13/2025

Summary

Story summary

Researchers in Western Australia identified a new bee species, Megachile lucifer, notable for a horned female.
The discovery occurred during a survey of the endangered Marianthus aquilonaris wildflower.
The bee's name, Megachile lucifer, was inspired by the Netflix series Lucifer.
Lead researcher Kit Prendergast said mining companies overlook native bees, risking undiscovered species.
This is the first new bee species in Western Australia in over 20 years, underscoring conservation needs.

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Story summary

Researchers in Western Australia identified a new bee species, Megachile lucifer, notable for a horned female.
The discovery occurred during a survey of the endangered Marianthus aquilonaris wildflower.
The bee's name, Megachile lucifer, was inspired by the Netflix series Lucifer.
Lead researcher Kit Prendergast said mining companies overlook native bees, risking undiscovered species.
This is the first new bee species in Western Australia in over 20 years, underscoring conservation needs.