What is the state insect of South Dakota?

The state insect of South Dakota is the honeybee. As one of the most important pollinators in agriculture, the honeybee plays a vital role in the production of crops like fruits, vegetables, and grains. The honeybee’s ability to pollinate flowers and plants has made it an indispensable part of South Dakota’s agricultural industry. The honeybee was designated as the state insect in 1978, reflecting its importance to the state’s economy and the environmental role it plays in maintaining the health of ecosystems.