Dracula Ants
Amblyoponinae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Superfamily: Formicoidea
- Family: Formicidae
- Subfamily: Amblyoponinae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Amblyoponinae: /ˌæm.blɪ.oʊˈpɒ.nəˌniː/
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Summary
Amblyoponinae is a subfamily of ants known as Dracula ants, characterized by their unique predatory behavior, small or absent eyes, and specific anatomical features that distinguish them from other ant groups.
Physical Characteristics
Amblyoponinae ants are identified by their small or absent eyes, specialized dentiform setae on the anterior margin of the clypeus, a flexible promesonotal suture, and a broadly attached petiole to abdominal segment 3 without a distinct posterior face. They possess well-developed stings.
Identification Tips
Look for small ants with reduced or absent eyes, and a petiole that is very broadly attached without a postpetiole.
Habitat
These ants are primarily found underground as specialist predators.
Distribution
Amblyoponinae has approximately 5 species documented in the United States, and it contains 13 extant genera in total.
Diet
They are specialized subterranean predators, feeding on other insects.
Life Cycle
Ants in this subfamily pierce the integument of their larvae and pupae to imbibe haemolymph, which is part of their feeding strategy.
Ecosystem Role
Amblyoponinae ants play a role in controlling populations of other subterranean insects due to their predaceous lifestyle.
Evolution
Originally categorized within the Ponerinae tribe, Amblyoponinae was elevated to its own subfamily in 2003 due to taxonomic revisions.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
They earn their common name 'Dracula ants' due to their feeding habits, which may imply a more harmful nature than they actually possess.
Tags
- Dracula Ants
- Amblyoponinae
- Subfamily
- Ants
- Predators