Patagonian giant bumblebee fights for survival amid invasive rivals

The Patagonian giant bumblebee Bombus dahlbomii, the region’s largest pollinator, is facing rapid declines as non-native European bumblebees (Bombus ruderatus and Bombus terrestris) outcompete it and bring pathogens; it also uniquely detects red flowers and is being highlighted as invertebrate of the year to raise awareness and conservation efforts.