1. Location (on a map) of collection: Visalia, Ca
2. Date of collection: 6/19/2018, around 10:00-10:45 hrs.
3. Habitat of collection: Concrete sidewalk bordering many lawns and homes in a typical suburb.
4. Length (from head to gaster): ~ 7-8mm
5. Color, hue, pattern and texture: Head and thorax appear a dark brown with myriad lines and ridges running along the surfaces almost creating a fingerprint. Despite the ridges, there is also a glossy sheen, particularly on the gaster which is quite shiny. The legs, antennae, borders of the gastral segments, and mandibles along the exterior face all along up to the masticatory margin are a light brown/blonde hue, growing lighter the closer to the ends of the extremities.
6. Distinguishing characteristics: Petiolar node slopes upward gradually, ending in a small peak which again slopes down to the post-petiole. Two short, sharp spines protrude from the propodeum. Sting is present. Short white hairs present along the entirety.
7. Distinguishing behavior: Fairly fast as they ran along the sidewalk, but once captured and placed into test tubes became very calm.
8. Nest description: Unable to find nest.
9. Nuptial flight time and date: Unknown, but presumably sometime the morning of 6/19/2018.
I was walking my dog outside of a friends house when I came across these little beauties and had to scramble for things to catch them in. Ended up collecting six.
I had a chance to run home and put them in test tubes, but went out of town the next day, so I didn't have a chance to take photos. When I came back, much to my surprise, these ladies had got right down to business and immediately put down some brood.
I'm pretty sure that this is Tetramorium immigrans. I've been wrong before though, so please feel free to correct me.
As usual, I'm very appreciative of any and all help that anyone feels like they can give, and thanks awfully in advance!
Cheers!