Calyptomyrmex is a genus of slow moving armored ant. Calyptomyrmex is monomorphic and monogynous. This mid size ant measure at slightly over 4 millimeters.There is a recess on both sides of the head behind the antennae that allow this armoured ant to withdraw their antennae similar to Cephalotes turtle ants but Calyptomyrmex lack eyes and spines (thorns). Calyptomyrmex are subterranean ants whereas Cephalotes and Cataulacus are arboreal ants.
Worker of Calyptomyrmex ant.
Workers of Calyptomyrmex ant.
Workers of Calyptomyrmex ant.
Taxonomy:
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Subclass: Pterygota
Infraclass: Neoptera
Order: Hymenoptera
Suborder: Apocrita
Infraorder: Aculeata
Superfamily: Vespoide
Family: Formicidae
Subfamily: Myrmicinae
Genus: Calyptomyrmex
Last Updated: 2011 10 31
© 2011 Quah. All rights reserved.
These ants seem to have similar habits with Meranoplus. Do they have chemical defense as well?
ReplyDeleteHowever, the appearence reminds me of Cephalotes turtle ants. For all I know, they might be related.
Most Calyptomyrmex species do not have eyes or spines (thorns). Cataulacus is probably more closer to Cephalotes, Meranoplus too.
ReplyDelete