Fossil bee nests discovered in the jaws of prehistoric mammals in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo. — Researchers have found in a cave in the south of the Dominican Republic fossilized bee nests built inside the jaws of prehistoric mammals, a behavior never before documented in science. The study, published in the journal *Royal Society Open Science* and led by paleontologist Lázaro Viñola López of the Field Museum of Chicago, analyzed fossilized jaws with dental cavities that bees used as a refuge and breeding ground for their young. Using computed tomography scans, scientists identified pollen grains preserved inside these cavities, which confirmed the presence of nests built by bees. The structures were unique enough to receive their own classification, called Osnidum almontei, in homage to the discoverer of the cave, Juan Almonte Milan.

Although no bee fossils were found themselves, the discovery provides valuable information about the adaptation of these insects to their environment and their behavior in prehistoric contexts where topsoil was scarce, which led them to take advantage of the available bone spaces. This discovery opens up new perspectives on the interaction between insects and mammals in the past and on how bees were able to develop unique nesting strategies in extreme conditions.