30 replies to this topic

[dspdrew]

Oh yeah, Liometopum stink.

[Foogoo]

I think I'm too nice to ants I find, maybe it's time to start smashing.

[James C. Trager]

Tapinoma & Liometopum (the latter considerably larger) bot have a strong dolichoderine odor. Technomyrmex, not so much. But also, Technomyrex would NEVER be found in the mountains, ONLY around irrigation in frost-free areas in in cities.

Can't really get a good look with these photos, but Tapinoma is most likely. They're bigger than the reported measurement, though, so you'll need to get a more accurate body length, too. 

[Foogoo]

This was around 2000' msl, is that considered "mountains"? I'll try to get some better pictures though it's difficult with how quick these guys are. Maybe it's time for a sacrificial worker, considering they don't have a good track record of staying alive in captivity anyway.

[Alza]

Yea, my queen just died today.....

[Foogoo]

According to AntWiki:

 

...feeds on dead insects or the juices of decaying fruits and vegetables. It is strongly attracted to sweet substances.

 

Doesn't sound like a picky species. Maybe the queens just don't live long. Although mine, if they are in fact Tapinoma, have yet to touch any of the foods I've offered.

[Alza]

I really doubt they were tapinoma.... 

[kellakk]

I really doubt they were tapinoma.... 

What makes you doubt it? Any specific reason? Tapinoma sp. seem to be common under rocks in mountainous areas here in southern California, based on other observations and my own.

[Foogoo]

Here's a few works and kids out for a bask in the heat lamp. Anyone have a better clue of Tapinoma vs. Technomyrmex?

 

[Alza]

I just feel like "ALL" technomyrmex don't live in damp area's. And i don't want to believe that they are Tapinoma. They resemble technomyrmex a lot more.

[dspdrew]

Sure looks like Tapinoma sessile to me.

 

Some of my pictures from years ago.