31 replies to this topic

[Idontexist]

I don't think iys a camponotus mayor since its torso is black
I don't think iys a camponotus mayor since its torso is black

[Leo]

I don't think iys a camponotus mayor since its torso is black
I don't think iys a camponotus mayor since its torso is black

that's not quite how it works, but regardless this is most likely a major (not a queen)

[Chickalo]

Smh looks like I'll have to explain every reason this is literally a Camponotus major and not a queen.  Here we go:

First off, the thorax's shape.  In case you've never actually seen a queen, you shouldn't go off of just size.  The thorax is very much shaped like that of a major.  It's curved down, the top bit doesn't go higher than the head, and it curves downwards.  Queen's thorax's are much more rectangular.

Then, the gaster.  Do you see how skinny she is?  Usually, Camponotus species has very thick gasters and longer.  This one has a very circular one compared to the more oval ones of the queens.  The only time you'll see this is in parasitic species and semi-claustral species (there are no known parasitic or semi-claustral Camponotus species.

 

Finally, the wing scars!  Wing scars are probably the best way to tell a queen (not mentioning gamergates and species that have what I call "Nuptial Walks") is the wing scars.  Basically, a queen will usually rip of her wings and lay eggs.  However, there are no wing scars here.

And now, preparing just incase, how do I know it's actually Camponotus species?  Well I'm glad I asked.  Generally, the genus Camponotus can be defined from all physical features.  The only other genus you're likely gonna get Camponotus mixed up with is Formica, and luckily in the America's there's a good way to tell the two apart:  Formica has a bumpy back, Camponotus is smooth.  If the ant is going to fast you can also tell by size.  Although Formica can have polymorphism, it is nowhere even close to that of Camponotus.

Edit:  Idontexist, that means nothing.  Colouration is usually only for species, not queens.  However in some species it can be used, but practically never depended on.  Also ants don't have torsos...

Edited by Chickalo, June 8 2021 - 4:34 AM.

[NicholasP]

guys... It kind of looks like polyergus if you look closely. Check out my polyergus journal and compare them.

[NicholasP]

oh wait. I take back what I said. It seems like a major but if the lighting in the pic were a little bit stronger I could see better if it has wing scars.

[Kaelwizard]

oh wait. I take back what I said. It seems like a major but if the lighting in the pic were a little bit stronger I could see better if it has wing scars.

It is most definitely a major. No Camponotus queen has that body shape.

 

And no offense, Idontexist, but I am going to ask you to please follow rule #7 and use proper English. I understand typing on mobile can be hard (I have experienced it first hand), but there is an edit tool that you can use to fix spelling errors after you have made a post.

Edited by Kaelwizard, June 8 2021 - 5:44 AM.

[PetsNotPests]

Sadly, that's not a queen. Looks to be ether a C. Pennsylvanicus or Modoc major. 

[Broncos]

I don't think iys a camponotus mayor since its torso is black
I don't think iys a camponotus mayor since its torso is black

A black torso doesnt make an ant a queen. Just because it has a black torso doesnt mean its a queen. I'm almost positive its not a queen.

Edited by Broncos, June 8 2021 - 9:06 AM.

[azzaaazzzz00]

oop sorry accidentally posted. yea just ignore this.

Edited by azzaaazzzz00, June 9 2021 - 5:52 AM.

[NicholasP]

 

oh wait. I take back what I said. It seems like a major but if the lighting in the pic were a little bit stronger I could see better if it has wing scars.

It is most definitely a major. No Camponotus queen has that body shape.

 

And no offense, Idontexist, but I am going to ask you to please follow rule #7 and use proper English. I understand typing on mobile can be hard (I have experienced it first hand), but there is an edit tool that you can use to fix spelling errors after you have made a post.

 

I know. I was just tired when I saw that cause a sleepy brain is a no good brain but yeah that's a major.

[azzaaazzzz00]

Eef, another accidental post...

Edited by azzaaazzzz00, June 9 2021 - 12:20 PM.

[PurdueEntomology]

Idontexist, here is a link to assist you in technical terminology as you communicate with other members, especially for those who  seem to have little patience with those just getting their feet wet in keeping ants.   https://www.antwiki....and_Terminology

 

Also, when you do post regarding an identification query there are rules proved on the homepage to assist you in framing your query so others may offer expedient and reliable responses.  The more information the better.  Also, try your best to have as high resolution and clear images as possible.  Images from various perspectives:  dorsal, ventral, lateral, head, mandibles are always appreciated.