Dolichoderinae

Definition

A subfamily of ants (Formicidae) comprising approximately 28 genera and 600+ species, characterized by a single petiolar node, the absence of a sting, and the use of chemical defenses and trail pheromones for foraging coordination. Members exhibit diverse nesting habits from soil and leaf litter to arboreal habitats, and several species are notable as invasive pests or dominant ecological competitors.

Etymology

From Greek dolichos (long) + dērē (neck/throat), referring to the elongated petiole characteristic of many species.

Example

The Argentine ant (Linepithema humile), a member of Dolichoderinae, forms expansive supercolonies that displace native ant communities across Mediterranean and temperate regions worldwide.

Related Terms

• Formicidae
• petiole
• pheromone trail
• Linepithema humile
• Tapinoma
• Iridomyrmex
• myrmecophily

Usage Notes

Distinguished from Formicinae by the presence of a slit-shaped orifice for chemical secretion (the acidopore in Formicinae is circular) and from other ant subfamilies by the reduced sting apparatus. The subfamily's ecological success often stems from aggressive territorial behavior and rapid recruitment to food sources via trail pheromones.