The Southern Limit of Natural Occurrence of the stingless bee Melipona subnitida (Hymenoptera: Apidae)

Melipona subnitida is one of the main species of stingless bees managed by beekeepers in Brazil and can be found in the Brazilian dry area. This study aimed to determine the limits of the natural occurrence of M. subnitida in the southern area of the Brazilian Northeastern region. Surveys for the occurrence area of this stingless bee were conducted over 20 years in Bahia state and a further two years in three other states. Also, all previously registered locals of occurrence were reviewed and climate data of all areas with M. subnitida were analysed. Results indicated that the occurrence limits of M. subnitida are north of Bahia bordering Pernambuco, it did not have a presence in Sergipe state, and that all areas have similar climate parameters. Thus, the occurrence area of M. subnitida is limited and does not covers all Brazilian Northeastern region.