Ancient Bee Fossil Discovered in New Zealand Sheds Light on Evolutionary History

A 14.6-million-year-old bee fossil has been unearthed in Otago, New Zealand, marking the first fossil bee species description from Zealandia. The discovery, named Leioproctus (Otagocolletes) barrydonovani, was found within the Hindon Maar volcanic complex on the South Island. This area is known for its rich insect fossil deposits. The 6.4-millimeter-long female bee was preserved in sedimentary rock, offering insights into bee evolution and diversification in New Zealand. Researchers speculate that the Leioproctus genus, if present millions of years ago, had ample time to diversify. However, the limited number of endemic species today suggests past interactions or events hindered further speciation. The fossil was found in organic clay, indicating a Miocene environment similar to mixed deciduous forests. While no pollen was attached, nearby Pseudopanax flowers suggest potential foraging habits. This finding underscores the complex evolutionary history of New Zealand's ecosystems and the delicate interactions shaping its flora and fauna.