6 replies to this topic

[nurbs]

Location: Olancha, CA

Date: 6-26-2020

Habitat: Desert

Length: 8-10mm

Coloring: Bright yellow, 

Distinguishing characteristics: Large black eyes, look like mini yellow Novomessors

 

These are Aphaenogaster megomatta. Putting this here for reference. Found some for the first time last year west of Landers, and I know Drew has seen colonies east of 29 palms. They can also be found all along the 395, which is where this specimen was found. I've included shots of the habitat. Not sure if this one from Olancha is fertile, half her wings are still attached. 

 

I have two colonies of these from Landers and they are exploding in growth this year, very large, hundreds of workers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited by nurbs, July 3 2020 - 8:50 AM.

[dspdrew]

Haha you got a picture of that dead thing.

[gcsnelling]

Nice find.

[RushmoreAnts]

Wow! Fascinating species. However, why do you call this thread an 'ID'? Seems more like a cross between a documentary and a journal, to me.

[nurbs]

Wow! Fascinating species. However, why do you call this thread an 'ID'? Seems more like a cross between a documentary and a journal, to me.

 

Because it's the first time this has ever been found here in California by us hobbyists, and I put this out there as reference so others who are more knowledgeable IDing can correct or discuss if my conclusions are wrong. This is not a journal, but all ID posts are documentary in nature.

Edited by nurbs, July 3 2020 - 1:38 PM.

[ponerinecat]

IS that a desiccated body? And nice find.

[FSTP]

this is a great find. This is a fascinating species. Definitely on my hot list.