Study maps where thousands of undiscovered bee species may be found.

A global analysis estimates there may be 3,700–5,200 undiscovered bee species, raising the possible total to about 24,705–26,164; the study maps likely discovery hotspots and highlights regions with large knowledge gaps.

Researchers present a new global assessment that estimates how many bee species remain undocumented and where they might be found. The study reports that 18,000+ bee species have been described and suggests a higher global total. It draws on global datasets, country checklists and literature records across 186 countries. Authors describe the resulting analysis as a "treasure map" to guide targeted species discovery. Key findings: - The study estimates 3,700–5,200 undiscovered bee species, implying a possible global total of about 24,705–26,164 species. - Data were compiled for 186 countries to identify likely discovery hotspots, with Australia, China, Argentina and Chile highlighted as areas with many undocumented species. - Europe is likely to have few remaining undiscovered species in some countries, while Turkiye is estimated to have about 843 species still to be found. - Island nations may hold richer bee diversity than continental nations, and China and Israel show notably large discovery gaps. - At current rates of description, researchers estimate it could take 30–45 years before all bee species are discovered. - The authors report barriers including regionally poor data, extinctions, poaching, limited taxonomic capacity, funding shortfalls, and national restrictions on specimen sharing. Summary: The study revises estimates of global bee diversity and provides a geographic outline of where undocumented species are most likely to occur. It also documents practical and political obstacles that slow species discovery, particularly in parts of Africa, Asia, and Central and South America. Undetermined at this time.