Bee Diversity in Northwestern Mexico: Spatial Patterns, Distribution, and Conservation from Sonora to Baja California Sur

Bees are the most important group of pollinators from both ecological and agricultural perspectives in most terrestrial ecosystems, reaching their highest diversity in the deserts of North America. Yet in the deserts of northwestern Mexico, their diversity remains understudied and underdocumented.

This project aims to study native bee diversity in the region through a participatory and transdisciplinary approach. It combines scientific research, outreach, education, and community science in key locations across the Baja California peninsula and Sonora.

In close collaboration with UNEC field stations and local partners, the project will carry out a range of activities—such as community talks, workshops, and scientific photography sessions—to promote observation, monitoring, and awareness of native bees among community members, including youth, decision-makers, and environmental stewards. The goal is to contribute to pollinator conservation.

Educational materials will include an illustrated field guide for bee identification and a website featuring visual and interactive content. This initiative is part of a broader effort to document bee diversity in the Sonoran Desert and aims to empower local communities to continue monitoring these key species within their territories.