Try for Free
tab list
Picture Insect
English
arrow
English
繁體中文
日本語
Español
Français
Deutsch
Pусский
Português
Italiano
한국어
Nederlands
العربية
Home Application Download FAQ
English
English
繁體中文
日本語
Español
Français
Deutsch
Pусский
Português
Italiano
한국어
Nederlands
العربية
Icon about
About
Icon about
General Info
Icon about
Search Tips
Icon about
Harmful or Not
Icon about
Beneficial Effects
Icon about
Common FAQs
Icon about
Similar Insects
Icon about
Popular Insects

Dammar Bee

Tetragonula iridipennis

A species of Tetragonula

Like other bees in its sub-species group, T. iridipennis can be identified by its dark mesoscutum or middle thorax region with four distinct hair bands separated by broad glabrous interspaces. It can be further distinguished from other species in its sub group by its chestnut-brown colored mandible which does not have a black apical area and a few dark brown erect setae or hair-like structures on the margin of its scutellum. Other species in the subgroup have yellow mandibles which have black apical areas and have light colored setae on their scutella. Based on studies of workers, T. indipennis has a total body length ranging from 3.5-4.0 mm and an entire body which is black to blackish brown. Size differences as well as male genitalia are key for identifying the species. They are relatively small sized bees and the male penis valve is very robust and tapers only at the apex. Male genitalia are also key to differentiating between male and female bees because the two sexes are very similar in size and color.

General Info About Dammar Bee
Instantly identify insects with a snap
Snap a photo for instant insect ID and risk assessment, gaining quick insights on bite assessment, toxicity, pest control, behavior, habitat, and safe interaction tips, etc.
Download the App for Free
Rectangle
Attributes of Dammar Bee
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
T. iridipennis is a tropical bee species and is found throughout the Indo-Malay region. Its range was once thought to go as far as the Solomon and Caroline islands, but unlike other Tetragonula species, its range is fairly limited. Although it was originally discovered on the island of Sri Lanka, it is predominantly found in India. Specifically, studies have been conducted on T. iridipennis colonies located in Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. T. iridipennis also occurs on the islands of Indonesia where it is a natural pollinator.
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, honey, pollen, plant sap, water
Larva Food Source
Royal jelly (initial days), bee bread, worker jelly, honey, pollen
Biting/stinging
The Dammar Bee may bite humans actively. Please stay away from it.
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing-lapping mouthparts
qrcode
Img download isoImg download android
Rectangle
Species Status of Dammar Bee
Widespread
Rectangle
Predators of Dammar Bee Larvae
Ants, bee-eating birds, lizards, small mammals, spiders
Rectangle
Predators of Adult Dammar Bee
Birds, dragonflies, praying mantises, spiders, toads
Rectangle
Interesting Facts About Dammar Bee
Unlike most bee species, dammar Bee creates spiral, horizontal hives that can withstand heavy monsoon rains.
Rectangle
Scientific Classification of Dammar Bee
Class
Bugs
Icon allow
Order
Bees
Icon allow
Tips for Finding Dammar Bee
Your ultimate guide to understanding insects
Unlock the secrets of insect life cycles, habitats, behaviors and observation tips!!
Download the App for Free
Rectangle
How Can You Attract Dammar Bee
For attracting dammar Bee, sweet substances like sugar water or natural floral nectars are effective as these creatures are attracted to sugary food sources for energy.
Rectangle
Habitat Preferences of Dammar Bee Through Different Life Stages
To encounter the larval stage of dammar Bee, one would typically inspect the brood cells within their wax or propolis constructed hives, often situated in hollow trees, wall cavities, or even man-made beehives. Foraging adults are frequently found buzzing over flowering plants, as they collect nectar and pollen. To observe pupae of dammar Bee, the sealed brood cells in their natural or artificial hives should be delicately inspected. Dedicated enthusiasts, equipped with knowledge of dammar Bee's nesting preferences, would methodically search these locations, mindfully turning over leaves or gently examining the environs surrounding hives for the various growth stages of dammar Bee.
Rectangle
When is the Best Time to Observe Dammar Bee
The best time to find dammar Bee is during the day when they are most active, particularly in warmer and sunnier weather which encourages foraging and flight activity.
Rectangle
What is the Best Weather to Observe Dammar Bee
Warm, sunny weather, with little to no wind, is ideal for finding dammar Bee, as these conditions are optimal for their flight and foraging behavior.
Rectangle
How and Where Can You Find Dammar Bee at Different Life Stages
Larva Dammar Bee larvae are located within the brood cells of their nests. To find them, carefully observe nest sites without disturbing the habitat. Use a protective suit if necessary to avoid stings.
Pupal Dammar Bee pupae also reside in brood cells. Finding pupae requires examining the nest structure with caution, typically a task for experienced beekeepers or researchers with appropriate gear.
Adult Adult dammar Bee can be found on flowering plants as they forage for nectar and pollen. Search flowering gardens, meadows, or near nests during peak foraging times.
Are Dammar Bee harmful?
Your Complete Pest Control Guide
Discover effective tips for preventing and eliminating pest infestations to keep bugs away from your home.
Download the App for Free
Rectangle

Are Dammar Bee harmful to humans?

Most bees are docile and only sting when they are irritated. The sting needles of bees are sharp and toxic, and people will obviously feel pain after being stung. Some bees may also cause swelling, redness, fever and itching. Some sensitive people may experience more severe symptoms or even death.
Beneficial Effects of Dammar Bee
Discover the hidden benefits of insects
Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
Download the App for Free
Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Dammar Bee is a diligent pollinator, attracted by the vivid colors and enticing smells of flowers. It collects pollen primarily to feed its offspring, transferring pollen from one bloom to another in the process, thus playing a crucial role in the reproduction of many plants.
Common Questions People Also Ask
Get Quick Insect Answers with a Snap
Snap a photo for instant insect ID and answers on bites, toxicity, pest control, behavior, habitat, and safety tips!
Download the App for Free
More Insects that are Similar to Dammar Bee
Tooth-bellied long-horned bee
Tooth-bellied long-horned bee

Melissodes dentiventris is a non-woven insect from the family of bees and bumblebees (Apidae). The scientific name of the species was first validly published in 1854 by Smith.

Read More
Arrow
Melissodes desponsa
Melissodes desponsa

Read More
Arrow
Eastern cucurbit bee
Eastern cucurbit bee

The eastern cucurbit bee (Peponapis pruinosa) is a picky eater who sticks with their preferred host plants, which include squash. Males are known to spend most of their time around flowers, even sleeping in them during the night. While it isn't known to be harmful, it still ends up being caught in pesticides intended for other insects.

Read More
Arrow
California cuckoo bee
California cuckoo bee

Xeromelecta californica is a non-woven insect from the family of bees and bumblebees (Apidae). The scientific name of the species was first validly published in 1878 by Cresson.

Read More
Arrow
Dilemma Orchid Bee
Dilemma Orchid Bee

The vibrant, metallic sheen of dilemma Orchid Bee glistens in hues of green, and blue as it diligently pollinates a variety of tropical flowers. Known for the males' remarkable ability to collect and store flower scents in specialized hind-leg pouches, these creatures play a crucial role in the ecosystems they frequent, aiding in the successful reproduction of numerous plant species. With their impressive fragrance collection, males create complex olfactory signals to attract mates, demonstrating a sophisticated interplay between flora and fauna.

Read More
Arrow
Eulaema cingulata
Eulaema cingulata

Eulaema cingulata is a fleece-winged insect from the family of bees and bumblebees (Apidae). The scientific name of the species was first validly published in 1804 by Fabricius.

Read More
Arrow
Eulaema mocsaryi
Eulaema mocsaryi

The head of Eulaema mocsaryi has a central raised ridge and both head and thorax are clad in short velvety black hairs. The colour of head and thorax is mainly black. The legs are black and hairy and the tibial joints of the hind legs are wide and compressed. The dark-coloured abdomen is densely covered with short tawny-yellowish hairs, becoming paler towards the tip of the abdomen.

Read More
Arrow
Eulaema meriana
Eulaema meriana

Eulaema meriana resembles a bumblebee in appearance and is covered in short dense hairs. At first glance Eulaema bees look like large bumblebee queens. They are relatively large bees with faint metallic colorations. The head of the bee is black, and the thorax brownish black with a large, glossy black scutellum. Their abdomen is black with three transverse pale yellowish bands on the anterior half, and the posterior third is reddish brown. E. meriana also possess membranous wings that are dark at the base and paler at the tips. The legs are black and the tibia of the hind legs are much thicker. Males possess hollows on their hind legs, while females have pollen baskets. In general, the species have long tongues that are thought to be an evolutionary adaptation that favors nectar collection. The large body size is thought to allow the bees to fly in cooler, rainy conditions and continue foraging. It has also been suggested that the larger body size can help them forage for longer distances.

Read More
Arrow
Other Popular Insects
Western honey bee
Western honey bee

Western honey bee(Apis mellifera) is the most common species of honeybee in the world. Among the first domesticated insects, its cultural and economic impact on humanity has been vast and far-reaching, providing honey, wax and its services as a pollinator. Western honey bee faces challenges worldwide, such as colony collapse disorder, and populations are thought to be decreasing.

Read More
Arrow
Monarch butterfly
Monarch butterfly

The monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) is the most recognizable butterfly in North America. It is best known for its appearance, but should be better known for the fact that it has a 3000-mile migration that takes the butterfly 4 generations to complete. Their diet is also a natural deterrent for predators, as they eat milkweed, a poison that induces vomiting.

Read More
Arrow
Japanese rhinoceros beetle
Japanese rhinoceros beetle

The japanese rhinoceros beetle (Trypoxylus dichotomus) is a massive beetle about the size of the palm of a hand. It's distinguished by its long Y-shaped horn, which it uses to fight other males with. It's a nocturnal bug that feeds on sap and sweet fruits. This species is sometimes kept as a pet due to its unique appearance and simple care requirements.

Read More
Arrow
Silkworm
Silkworm

The silken threads produced by silkworm during its larval stage have been highly coveted for millennia, manifesting as a luxurious fabric in human society. Remarkably, this creature has a singular diet, feeding exclusively on the leaves of its primary host plant from which it extracts the necessary nutrients to facilitate its transition into a non-feeding, winged adult.

Read More
Arrow
Menelaus blue morpho
Menelaus blue morpho

Menelaus blue morpho (Morpho menelaus) is a gorgeous butterfly with large, royal blue wings. Linnaeus named the genus Morpho the Aphrodite-Ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty for its extreme beauty. It is native to tropical rainforests. Though many butterfly gardens now cultivate them in captivity, there are still many people who never get a chance to see them.

Read More
Arrow
Atlas moth
Atlas moth

While the atlas moth (Attacus atlas) can't tell you where to find your country on the map, it does earn its name through other means. It is one of the largest moths in the world, with a wingspan that is far larger than its body, creating an abnormal comparison. In India, their silk is gathered in a non-commercial capacity and is considered to be more durable than the domestic silkworm.

Read More
Arrow
Flying peacock spider
Flying peacock spider

Both sexes reach about 5 mm in body length. Females and immatures of both sexes are brown but have color patterns by which they can be distinguished from related species. Also, the males dance to attract females.

Read More
Arrow
Multicolored asian ladybeetle
Multicolored asian ladybeetle

Often confused for the ladybug, multicolored asian ladybeetle (Harmonia axyridis) is a separate species that, unlike the ladybug, is a household pest. It is considered particularly annoying for its habit of returning to places from which it is removed. One of the most variable species in the world, there are many different colors and patterns multicolored asian ladybeetle may display, making identification potentially difficult.

Read More
Arrow