“Meet Australian Native Stingless Bees” showcases Tetragonula carbonaria and highlights their surprising hive warfare behavior.
The video introduces Australian native stingless bees, specifically the species Tetragonula carbonaria. These bees are known for their gentle nature—they don’t sting—but the footage reveals a dramatic twist: when one hive attempts to invade another, it triggers an intense territorial battle. Despite their lack of stingers, these bees engage in aggressive defense tactics, swarming and grappling in large numbers to protect their colony.
Here’s what’s covered:
- Species featured: Tetragonula carbonaria, a stingless bee native to Australia.
- Behavioral focus: Hive defense and inter-hive aggression, described as “all-out war” when one colony attacks another.
- Visuals: Close-up footage of bees clustering and clashing at hive entrances, illustrating their coordinated defense.
- Tone: Educational with a hint of drama, emphasizing that “stingless” doesn’t mean passive.
