Fly Free, Bee Happy
Melipona Bees at Risk: Why We Protect Costa Rica’s Gentle Pollinators
The delicate hum of Melipona bees, guardians of Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity, is fading as deforestation, pesticide use, and climate change threaten their survival—of the 550 known species, many face an uncertain future, risking the loss of these gentle pollinators that sustain the lush forests and vibrant ecosystems of our planet.
The Silent Struggle: Saving Stingless Bees from Extinction
The fragile existence of stingless bees hangs in the balance, as 30-40% of species face alarming population declines—driven by habitat destruction, pesticide exposure, and climate shifts—pushing some to the very edge of extinction, threatening the delicate web of life they help sustain.
We are Reliant on Pollinators
With every one in three bites of food relying on bee pollination, these tiny winged workers are the unsung heroes of our food supply, sustaining 75% of the world’s flowering plants and nearly 35% of global crops, ensuring the richness of our plates and the balance of our ecosystems.
Our Work
At Torunes Farm, we are dedicated to preserving the delicate balance between nature and pollinators, with a special focus on the conservation of Melipona bees—Costa Rica’s native, stingless treasures. Our work goes beyond simple beekeeping; it is a carefully curated effort to map and inventory the diverse trees, flowering plants, bushes, and vines that thrive on our land. By tracking bloom cycles and the nutrients each plant provides, we are building a living blueprint that supports these essential pollinators year-round. Every flowering season reveals new insights, allowing us to cultivate a rich, biodiverse sanctuary where Melipona bees can flourish. With each tiny buzz, they not only sustain our ecosystem but also carry forward an ancient relationship between flora and pollinator, ensuring that the land remains vibrant for generations to come.
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Field Investigation
A field investigation at Torunes Farm is documenting the behaviors, foraging patterns, and hive dynamics of Melipona bees, a vital native pollinator. Researchers are analyzing their interactions with local flora to assess their role in sustaining biodiversity and supporting agricultural productivity.
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Best Medicinal Plants for the Bees
At Torunes Farm, key medicinal plants such as Ocimum tenuiflorum (Holy Basil), Eryngium foetidum (Culantro), and Vernonia arborea provide essential nectar and bioactive compounds that support Melipona bee health. These plants enhance colony resilience by offering antimicrobial properties, strengthening immunity, and promoting sustainable pollination cycles.
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Mariola (Tetragonisca angustula) Endangered
The Mariola bee (Tetragonisca angustula), a stingless pollinator vital to tropical ecosystems, is endangered due to habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and climate change. Torunes Farm's conservation efforts focus on preserving its nesting sites, cultivating native flora, and promoting sustainable practices to safeguard this species and its essential role in biodiversity.
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Jicote Gat0 (Frieseomelitta varia) Endangered
The Jicote Gato (Frieseomelitta varia), an endangered stingless bee, is under threat due to deforestation, pesticide use, and climate instability, endangering its critical role in pollination. Torunes Farm's Bee Oasis provides a protected habitat, restoring native plant diversity and ensuring sustainable nesting conditions to support the survival of this vital species.
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Jicote Barcino (Fasciata melanpleura)
The Jicote Barcino (Fasciata melanopleura), a vital stingless bee species in Costa Rica, is increasingly at risk due to habitat degradation and climate pressures. Torunes Farm's Bee Oasis is dedicated to conserving this pollinator by preserving native nesting sites, cultivating essential forage plants, and promoting sustainable ecological practices.
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Soncuano
(Scaptotrigona pectoralis)
The Soncuano bee (Scaptotrigona pectoralis) may be small, but it plays a mighty role in nature. Native to the lush forests of Central and South America, this stingless bee is a tireless pollinator, ensuring the survival of countless plant species. Unlike their European honeybee cousins, Soncuano bees produce a rare, medicinal honey prized for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Their colonies hum with precision, with workers defending their hives using biting tactics rather than stingers. Known for their adaptability, they thrive in both wild and cultivated landscapes, making them a key player in preserving biodiversity and sustaining ecosystems.
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