4 replies to this topic

[Mau5]

Hello all. It's my first attempt of finding a queen so I'm not too sure about this one. Sorry about the photos. I can try to get clearer ones if needed.

1. Location: White Lake, MI
2. Date of collection: 6/22/17
3. Habitat of collection: Found running along the driveway with a grassy yard, surrounded by woods.
4. Length (from head to gaster): 10mm
5. Color, hue, pattern and texture: Tan orange, slight translucent with darker stripes across gaster.
6. Distinguishing characteristics: dark spots (possible wing scars) on both side top of thorax, 1 petiole node, round eyes, stinger(?)
7. Distinguishing behavior: actively roaming.
8. Nest description: no nest found.


http://imgur.com/NhTz2DE
http://imgur.com/1GADITB
http://imgur.com/YFJHZa3

[Loops117]

Aaron?

 

Yes, that IS a queen. But it looks to be a parasitic Lasius queen such as L.claviger, L.umbratus or L.murphyi.

All of which require a pre-existing colony to found their own. This species is very hard to start.

[Mau5]

Darn... That's what I was assuming. I released her where I found her. So the hunt continues! Definitely an ego boost though . Thanks for you're help! Was just about to post it to the facebook group too lol.

[Loops117]

haha, it's ok! Parasitic queens have gotten the better half of most of us.

[Batspiderfish]

Lasius interjectus