Reverse: The coat of arms of South Africa, adopted in 2000, symbolizes the nation's unity in diversity and its history. It features two Khoisan figures in a greeting posture, representing peaceful coexistence. A shield, decorated with crossed spears, signifies protection and peace. A protea flower symbolizes beauty and prosperity, while a spread-winged African fish eagle represents freedom and vigilance. Wheat stalks reflect fertility and agricultural growth, and a rising sun symbolizes rebirth. The motto, in the Khoisan language, translates to "Unity in Diversity," emphasizing national cohesion.
Obverse: The Cape honeybee (Apis mellifera capensis), native to South Africa's Cape region, is known for its unique ability to reproduce without mating, allowing worker bees to lay eggs that develop into females. This leads to social parasitism, where Cape worker bees infiltrate the hives of other subspecies, especially the African honeybee (Apis mellifera scutellata), weakening and often destroying the host colonies. While this reproductive ability might seem advantageous, it poses significant challenges for beekeepers, as the risk of hive invasion and colony collapse can severely impact the beekeeping industry.
