Rare Himalayan Bee Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh, First Recorded in India

Researchers from the Indian Institute of Science identified a rare Himalayan bee species in the forests of Arunachal Pradesh during a biodiversity survey in the eastern Himalayas.

The discovery is the first record of this insect in India. The bee, belonging to the genus *Andrena*, is known for its specialized pollination of alpine flora.

Scientists say the finding highlights the region's rich yet understudied insect diversity and may inform conservation strategies for fragile Himalayan ecosystems. Further studies are planned to assess the bee's distribution and ecological role.