New Distribution Record of Tetrigona apicalis (Smith, 1857) (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Meliponini) in Ujung Kulon National Park, Indonesia

Researchers have documented the first occurrence of the stingless bee species Tetrigona apicalis (Apidae: Meliponini) within Ujung Kulon National Park (UKNP), a UNESCO-listed Natural World Heritage Site in western Java, Indonesia. This discovery expands the known distribution of the species on Java Island, contributing critical data for conservation efforts. The colony was found at 883 meters above sea level in Mount Honje's forest, with nests located in tree cavities of Tiliaceae, exhibiting irregular entrances measuring 3.2 cm (longitudinal) and 5.7 cm (vertical) in diameter. Locally known as 'teuwel meunyan,' the bees are associated with traditional incense rituals due to their aromatic scent. The study provides morphological and morphometric details of the species, offering insights for sustainable utilization and future research.

Miharja, J., Atmowidi, T., Priawandiputra, W., Perwitasari, D., & Kahono, S. (2025). New Distribution Record of Tetrigona apicalis (Smith, 1857) (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Meliponini) in Ujung Kulon National Park, Indonesia. HAYATI Journal of Biosciences, 33(1), 1–7. https://doi.org/10.4308/hjb.33.1.1-7