8 replies to this topic

[Devi]

Hey, so I live near Denver but I'm on vacation up in the mountains.  I found two queens that need to be IDed.  Here is the first... 

 

1. Twin Lakes Colorado
2. Date of collection:  Aug. 2nd
3. Habitat of collection:  Dry desert area kind of, there are pine trees but overall pretty dry.
4. Length (from head to gaster): I'm up in a cabin with no ruler so unfortanately I can't provide this.  I will get it when I get home.
5. Color, hue, pattern and texture: The head is black, thorax black, and shiny black gaster with white stripes.
6. Distinguishing characteristics: Very large gaster, also very shiny.
7. Distinguishing behavior:  Honestly pretty chill, doesn't mind movement or light too much...
8. Nest description: I found this queen under a rock.

9. Nuptial flight time and date:  IDK about the flight, this queen was a dealate. I found it around 10:30 AM.   Maybe the Fresca can will help for size reference?

Edited by Devi, August 2 2020 - 8:06 PM.

[TechAnt]

Formica sp. for sure. I’d like to say Formica subsericia but I can’t be positive.

[Devi]

Formica sp. for sure. I’d like to say Formica subsericia but I can’t be positive.

I think you're right on the money.  I've seen other workers up here that look exactly like Formica Subsericia.  Thanks!

[AnthonyP163]

This isn't Formica subsericea, but it is something in the fusca-group, likely a species closely related to subsericea.

[ANTdrew]

She looks a lot like my Formica argentea, for what that’s worth.

[Antkid12]

Formica fusca group.

[Kaelwizard]

There are multiple species that look like F. subsericea to the naked eye. Don’t always go off what you can see without a microscope.

[ponerinecat]

usually the more typical or common species of ants have a lot of lookalikes, if the species itself isn't a complex.

[TennesseeAnts]

Formica fusca-group.