Study estimates global bee species richness at 24,705-26,164

What the study found: The authors statistically estimated global, continental, and country lower bounds of bee species richness. They report a global estimate of 24,705-26,164 bee species, which they describe as an 18-25% increase, and they say this represents at least 32-45 years of taxonomic research.
Why the authors say this matters: The study says robust species richness estimates are important for conservation prioritisation, understanding ecosystem resilience, and studying evolutionary processes. The authors also conclude that their statistical R-package framework could help improve understanding of lesser-known groups and use existing occurrence datasets to estimate species richness on global scales.
What the researchers tested: The researchers used a statistical approach to estimate lower bounds of bee species richness at global, continental, and country levels. They also examined how taxonomic gaps relate to GDP per capita, observed species richness, number of occurrence records, and completeness of occurrence databases.
What worked and what didn't: The analysis produced estimated species richness values and identified particularly high undescribed biodiversity from Asia, Africa, and the Americas. It also found that taxonomic gaps were correlated with GDP per capita, observed species richness, occurrence records, and database completeness.
What to keep in mind: The abstract describes lower-bound estimates and does not provide detailed limitations beyond that scope. It also does not specify the exact taxonomic methods used in the abstract summary.

Key points

• Global bee species richness was estimated at 24,705-26,164 species.
• The authors describe this as an 18-25% increase and at least 32-45 years of taxonomic research.
• High undescribed biodiversity was estimated for Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
• Taxonomic gaps were correlated with GDP per capita, observed species richness, occurrence records, and database completeness.
• The authors say their R-package framework could help estimate species richness on global scales.