6 replies to this topic

[dean_k]

I've acquired an ant species that I was told it was Aphaenogaster sp.

 

Nanitic size : 4mm

Queen size : 8mm

 

It was found in Hamilton ( Ontario, Canada ) as far as I know. It was found during a hiking, I was told, by a dirt road.

 

They would not stop moving due to light, so I am not able to take clear pictures. I did the best I could.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited by dean_k, January 28 2015 - 6:55 AM.

[dspdrew]

Yep, looks like Aphaenogaster to me.

[Mercutia]

Wow what a lucky find. Definitely looks Aphaenogaster-esque. I'd say maybe Aphaenogaster rudis or Aphaenogaster picea.

 

Also a close up of the antennae would be most useful in distinguishing the two.

[dean_k]

I don't think I'd be able to get close shot of their antennae until a worker dies or at least I have them moved to something else and they settle down. Right now they are acting really really jumpy. Even more than my Formica subsericea.

 

How are their antennae different between A. rudis and A. picea? He did tell me he thinks it is A. rudis.

Edited by dean_k, January 27 2015 - 4:52 PM.

[Mercutia]

The four segments on the end of the antennae, if they are the same color as the rest of the antennae it's A. rudis. If they appear lighter, it is A. picea.

 

When you get your field guide from Amazon, there are more details but the antennae are probably the most easiest to note without a microscope.

[dean_k]

With my bare eyes, I am able to tell that their antennae color is different. It's brighter in color toward the end, so I guess that means it is A. picea.

 

Edit: On web, it says A. picea ( Wheeler ). What does "Wheeler" mean when used for ants?

Edited by dean_k, January 27 2015 - 6:37 PM.

[kellakk]

A name in parentheses at the end of a scientific name signifies the original discoverer/namer of the species.