Tetragonisca angustula is a small eusocial stingless bee found in Central and South America. It is known by a variety of names in different regions (e.g. jataÃÂ, yatei, jaty, virginitas, angelitas ingleses, españolita, mariola, chipisas, virgencitas, and mariolitas). A closely related species, Tetragonisca fiebrigi, occupies different areas in South America and has a slightly different coloration. T. angustula is a very small bee and builds unobtrusive nests, allowing it to thrive in urban areas. It also produces large amounts of honey, and is thus frequently kept in wooden hives by beekeepers. T. angustula hives are often overlooked, and since the bee lacks a stinger, it is not seen as a threat to humans.
|
