Now, for something completely different:

Associations between certain species of Meliponini and free-living phytophagic
hemipterans, which make sugar secretions (honeydew), are well known, but their
mutualistic associations with sedentary hemipterans, coccids, are known only
among species of the genus Schwarzula was the first to suspect mutualism 
between Scaura timida and scale insects, but detailed observations only were 
made by Camargo and Pedro (2002)

The scale insects ( Cryptostigma sp.) are found attached to the gallery walls, in the nest
interior, where they receive protection and care from the bees (Fig. 2.5 ), and, in
exchange, offer sweet secretions and additional wax the bees use in nest construc-
tion. The secretions are a subproduct of sap from the plant, on which the scale
insects feed. When stimulated by attending bees, the scale insects liberate, through
the anus, a small droplet of the sugary liquid, which is ingested by the attendant.

These bees are the only known species which have, within their own nest, a permanent
source of carbohydrates, in addition to additional wax for building. Only pollen
is collected at flowers (Camargo and Pedro 2002 ).

João Maria Franco de Camargo
in Pot Honey

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