Afrotropical Stingless Bees Illustrate a Persistent Cultural Blind Spot in Research, Policy and Conservation

Publication Type

Journal Article

Journal Name

Diversity

Publication Date

12-1-2025

Abstract

This perspective paper examines the multifaceted cultural ecosystem services (CESs) provided by wild bees with particular attention to the spiritual, medicinal, and traditional knowledge-based dimensions associated with Afrotropical stingless bees. We integrate these insights within a biocultural framework, highlighting their relational values and arguing that the systematic omission of these cultural roles in pollinator research, policy and conservation constitutes a form of epistemic injustice. We also argue that the systematic recognition and documentation of these cultural roles are critical to advancing more inclusive and effective conservation frameworks. Based on a synthesis of field observations, photo-documentation, and literature review, we propose future research and policy directions aimed at embedding these cultural values more comprehensively within biocultural conservation strategies.

Keywords

biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services, Meliponini

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