The research estimates there are between 24,705 and 26,164 bee species worldwide. This represents a minimum range based on current knowledge, meaning the true number is likely higher as more species are discovered.

The new estimate suggests that at least 3,771 to 5,230 species have yet to be formally identified and named.

The study was led by evolutionary biologist Dr James Dorey, who says knowing how many bee species exist is an essential step for conservation.

“You can’t conserve something you don’t know,” Dr Dorey said.

“An accurate species estimate shows where to focus efforts and helps researchers and taxonomists understand where work is needed most.”

Published in Nature Communications, the study—Estimating global bee species richness and taxonomic gaps—was authored by James Dorey, Amy-Marie Gilpin, Nikolas Johnston, Damien Esquerre, Alice Hughes, John Ascher and Michael Orr.

The team analysed global datasets, taxonomic records, country species checklists, and scientific literature to measure bee diversity at global, continental, and country levels across 186 nations.

The global survey has also raised important questions about what may be missing from Australia’s own species count.

The findings highlight how many bee species remain unclassified or overlooked, showing that even Australia’s familiar pollinators are not fully understood.

Dr Dorey said closing these knowledge gaps is crucial for conservation and food security.

“Without knowing how many bee species exist in Australia, a crucial piece of the puzzle is missing for protecting both our nature and farming,” Dr Dorey said.

Dr Dorey said that while agricultural producers can manage honey bees to improve pollination, there are limits if this is done without supporting broader biodiversity.

“Native bees don’t often take a front seat in Australia’s agriculture because we rely heavily on feral and managed honey bees. But they could play a bigger role in sustainable pollination than we realised.”

“Strong biodiversity will bring better, more sustainable pollination for Australia’s crops, and native bees are an important indicator of effective pollination,” Dr Dorey said.

Beyond agriculture, Australia’s native bees provide vital ecosystem services.

“Native bees pollinate the lion’s share of native plants, which support wildlife, cycle nutrients, protect coastlines, prevent erosion and carry important cultural and ecological significance for Indigenous Australians and others,” he said.

Dr James Dorey is a long-term collaborator with the Wheen Bee Foundation. He has documented Australia’s native bees with research and photography, inspiring awareness and conservation through the Foundation’s Discover Bees program.

He is also a judge in the Foundation’s Pollinator Photography Competition, and his macro photography has been featured in his book Bees of Australia – A Photographic Exploration and the Discover Bees of Australia poster, available to purchase here: www.wheenbeefoundation.org.au/product/discover-bees-poster/

About the research

‘Estimating global bee species richness and taxonomic gaps’, by James Dorey, Amy-Marie Gilpin, Nikolas Johnston, Damien Esquerre, Alice Hughes, John Ascher, and Michael Orr, was published in Nature Communications: https://www.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-69029-4

Image credit: Michael Gray.