3 replies to this topic

[JillionsMillions]

1. Location: She was collected trying to dig her founding chamber in some dirt in a backyard in Salt Lake City, Utah. 

2. Collected: 06.17.18

3. Habitat: In a backyard that was overgrown with weeds and trees local to utah (sorry did not identify before leaving)

4. Length: 8-9mm

5. Coloration: She is very close to black all over. Her head is a bit lighter as I can see her eyes. And her gaster starts to lighten towards the end. Clear wings (if that helps?)

6. Distinguishing Characteristics: Two petiole nodes.

7. Attional Description: She is very aggressive, and slow but has some damage to her right legs.

8. Nest Descriptoin: Was digging founding chamber, but had just started.

9. Nuptial Flight: Did not observe

10. Photos: The glass on my camera shattered the day before I had to take these photos. I apologise for how terrible they are. If we are not able to identify her based on these today I will attempt to take some new ones next week after she has time to rest. 

 

https://imgur.com/0JCg6Co

https://imgur.com/JY5OLV6

https://imgur.com/8xPOau2

 

When identifying please tell me why you believe she is that particular species? I am interested in why. 

Thanks a bunch!! 

 

[super_oil]

Monomorium sp. perhaps.

[LC3]

Tetramorium immigrans probably.

[nick2253]

Tetramorium immigrans probably.

 

Based on what I can see in the pictures, I agree with this.  It's the right time of year for T. immigrans, the size is about right, and the large space between the thorax and gaster is compatible with a post petiole.  However, without better pictures, it's difficult to be certain.

 

Try and get pictures that show the petiole/post petiole and gaster.