A new species of the bee genus Ctenoplectrella in middle Eocene Baltic amber (Hymenoptera, Megachilidae)
2011

New Bee Species from Eocene Baltic Amber

Sample size: 2 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Victor H. Gonzalez, Michael S. Engel

Primary Institution: University of Kansas

Conclusion

A new species of the extinct bee genus Ctenoplectrella has been identified from middle Eocene Baltic amber.

Supporting Evidence

  • Ctenoplectrella phaeton is distinguished by its body proportions and wing features.
  • The study provides a revised key to the species of Ctenoplectrella.
  • The specimens were found in middle Eocene Baltic amber.

Takeaway

Scientists found a new type of bee that lived a long time ago, and they can tell it's different from other bees because of its shape and features.

Methodology

The study involved morphological analysis of two female specimens preserved in amber.

Limitations

The male of the species is unknown, and some features are obscured by the amber.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3897/zookeys.111.1593

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