Trigona spinipes

Trigona spinipes is a species of stingless bee belonging to the family Apidae (order Hymenoptera). Native to South America, these insects are recognized not only as pollinators but also as significant agricultural pests due to their destructive feeding behavior on various commercial crops.

These insects primarily attack fruit-bearing plants, including citrus, apples, pears, peaches, and grapes. They show a particular preference for succulent tissues, such as young shoots, flower buds, and developing fruits, causing localized damage that can escalate if the local population density is high.

The biology of Trigona spinipes is characterized by large, perennial colonies that reside in tree cavities. Unlike many other bees, they have highly specialized mandibles that allow them to scrape the epidermis of plants to collect resins and plant sap. Their foraging activity is intense, often resulting in synchronized attacks on orchards during bloom or fruit set.

The damage caused by these bees is physical. By scraping the outer layers of fruits and floral structures, they create open wounds. These lesions lead to scar formation, fruit deformity, and vulnerability to secondary fungal or bacterial infections. Severe infestations can cause flower abortion and significant reductions in total crop yield.

Control strategies for Trigona spinipes must be carefully implemented to balance pest management with the protection of other beneficial pollinators. Effective practices include:

• Locating and removing nearby nests when possible.
• Installing physical barriers or netting during sensitive growth stages.
• Using chemical repellents or baits that specifically target the behavior of this species.
• Maintaining orchard hygiene by removing dead wood that offers nesting sites.