Spatial Distribution and Nectar Corridors of Wild Bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) in Thajwas Wildlife Sanctuary, Jammu and Kashmir

Wild bees are vital pollinators contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem stability. This study explores their spatial distribution and food plants across various habitats in Thajwas Wildlife Sanctuary, Jammu and Kashmir, India. Ten species of wild bees viz; Bombus albopleuralis, B. simillimus, B. melanurus, B. tunicatus, B. rufofasciatus, B. eurythorax, B. jacobsoni, B. longiceps, B. himalayanus and B. ferganicus were recorded across seven subgenera at an elevation of 2700–3500 m AMSL. The findings underscores the ecological importance of these vital creatures in the mountain ecosystems and highlight the need for conservation efforts to protect pollinator networks in this high-altitude region of Indian Himalaya.