Ancient bees, 20,000 years ago, built nests inside the tooth sockets of fossilized animal jaws: Scientists discover first known case of bees using bone as a nursery
Remarkable fossil evidence reveals ancient bees, 20,000 years old, nested within empty tooth sockets of fossilized animal jaws in a Hispaniola cave. Researchers discovered these unique nests, classified as a new trace fossil, indicating solitary bees ingeniously repurposed bone cavities for their eggs. This unexpected behavior highlights the adaptability of bees and suggests similar discoveries may await in existing fossil collections.
Remarkable fossil evidence reveals ancient bees, 20,000 years old, nested within empty tooth sockets of fossilized animal jaws in a Hispaniola cave. Researchers discovered these unique nests, classified as a new trace fossil, indicating solitary bees ingeniously repurposed bone cavities for their eggs. This unexpected behavior highlights the adaptability of bees and suggests similar discoveries may await in existing fossil collections.
