Odorous Ants
Dolichoderinae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Superfamily: Formicoidea
- Family: Formicidae
- Subfamily: Dolichoderinae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Dolichoderinae: //ˌdɒlɪkoʊˈdɛrɪniː//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Dolichoderinae is a subfamily of ants known as odorous ants, comprising multiple genera such as Dolichoderus, Dorymyrmex, and Tapinoma. They are characterized by their chemical defenses, single petiole structure, and diverse distribution across various biogeographical realms.
Physical Characteristics
Dolichoderinae ants have a single petiole (no post-petiole) and a slit-like orifice for chemical release. They lack a sting, relying on chemical defenses instead, produced from the anal gland.
Identification Tips
Look for ants with a single petiole and a chemical release orifice. They typically emit a distinctive odor when crushed or disturbed due to the presence of terpenoid compounds.
Habitat
These ants are found in various habitats, particularly preferring warm and/or xeric regions. Some species are also common in urban settings, especially during cooler months.
Distribution
Dolichoderinae are distributed across multiple biogeographic realms including the Palearctic, Nearctic, Afrotropical region and Malaysia, the Middle East, Australian, and Neotropical regions.
Diet
They primarily rely on a liquid diet, such as honeydew and nectar, but also prey on small arthropods and scavenge scat and carrion.
Ecosystem Role
Dolichoderinae ants play a significant role in their ecosystems through their scavenging habits and their interactions with other species, including their role as predators of small arthropods.
Collecting Methods
- Field collection using bait stations
- Pitfall traps
- Hand picking
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Slide mounting
- Pinned specimen collection
Evolution
The Dolichoderinae represent an evolutionary distinct group within the family Formicidae, characterized by their unique morphological and chemical traits which differentiate them from other ant subfamilies.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Some may confuse Dolichoderinae with other ant subfamilies due to the presence of ants that emit odor, but their lack of stings and unique petiolate structure differentiate them.
Tags
- ants
- Dolichoderinae
- odorous ants
- insect
- Hymenoptera