The red dwarf bee (Apis florea), a species native to Asia, has been observed for the first time in Europe, raising concerns among scientists. This invasive species, detected in Malta, could pose a serious risk to local biodiversity and European honeybee populations.

A Surprising Discovery with Major Consequences

On August 21, 2024, researchers announced in the Journal of Apicultural Research the first recorded presence of Apis florea on European soil.

The discovery of this small but potentially disruptive species has sparked fears about its impact on native pollinators, particularly honeybees (Apis mellifera), which are already facing numerous threats.

Dave Goulson, a professor of biology at the University of Sussex, expressed concern in an interview with The Guardian:

“Apis florea is likely to compete with our native pollinators for pollen and nectar—an alarming development for insects already in decline. Additionally, these bees could be carriers of multiple diseases that European bees have little resistance to.”

The red dwarf bee has previously spread from Asia to the Middle East and Northeast Africa, but this marks its first confirmed appearance in Europe.

A Colony of 2,000 Bees Arrived via Cargo Ship

The Malta Beekeepers’ Association and local scientists identified a colony of 2,000 adult bees near the free port of Birżebbuġa, one of the island’s key commercial hubs. DNA testing confirmed that the insects belonged to the Apis florea species, prompting immediate action to destroy the nest.

However, experts fear it may already be too late. Some bees could have left the nest before its destruction, potentially establishing new colonies elsewhere on the island or beyond.

Professor Juliana Rangel, an apiculture expert at Texas A&M University, warned that maritime trade routes are a major factor in the spread of non-native insect species:

“Shipping is one of the fastest and most common ways for different subspecies of Apis mellifera, as well as other bees, wasps, and flying insects, to reach new locations far from their original habitats.”

Climate Change Fueling New Invasions

Beyond global trade, climate change may also be accelerating the spread of invasive species. Rising temperatures and milder winters in Malta and other southern European countries are creating ideal conditions for these tropical bees to survive and thrive.

The website FICSUM, affiliated with the University of Montreal, has highlighted this trend, noting that climate change is allowing species to expand into previously uninhabitable regions.

Juliana Rangel predicts more such invasions in the near future:

“With the short distances between Mediterranean islands, we can expect to see more incursions like this one. Constant surveillance is essential, especially in ports, to identify and remove invasive swarms before they establish themselves.”

What Is APIS Florea?

The red dwarf bee (Apis florea) is a small honeybee species measuring around 3.27 mm in length. It is mainly found in Asia and parts of Africa, preferring low-altitude environments below 500 meters.

Unlike European honeybees, Apis florea builds single-comb nests in open-air locations, usually on tree branches. It communicates through a unique dance, using the top of the nest as a platform.

While not aggressive toward humans, its sting can cause toxic reactions in some individuals. However, the main concern remains its potential impact on European ecosystems.

Experts are urging stricter monitoring of shipping routes, rapid identification of new colonies, and swift intervention to prevent the species from spreading further.