Which type of bees do not form colonies?

Solitary bees are unique in that they do not form colonies, unlike their social counterparts. While social bees, such as honeybees and bumblebees, live in structured communities with defined roles and cooperative behaviors, solitary bees are independent and do not engage in this communal lifestyle. Each solitary bee typically nests alone, cares for its young without assistance, and does not participate in the complex social interactions seen in colony-based species.

This distinction underscores the diversity within the bee population, showcasing different survival strategies. Solitary bees often have specific nesting preferences and behaviors that allow them to thrive individually, which can include burrowing into the ground, hollow stems, or even using existing holes. Their solitary nature stands in stark contrast to the collective efforts evident in social bee species, where workers and drones contribute to the hive's maintenance and reproduction.