Labidus coecus

(Latreille, 1802)

Labidus coecus is a New World army ant distinguished by its primarily subterranean lifestyle. It maintains an extensive geographic range spanning from Argentina to the southern United States, with documented in 20 Central and South American countries, three West Indian islands, and four US states. The commonly nests in caves, a habit that may enable survival in otherwise inhospitable climates. It has been observed predating upon Podocnemis turtles.

Labidus coecus casent0173512 label 1 by Michele Esposito. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.Labidus coecus casent0178609 label 1 by April Nobile. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.Labidus coecus casent0178610 profile 1 by April Nobile. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Labidus coecus: /ˈlæbɪdəs ˈsiːkəs/

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Habitat

Subterranean; commonly nests in caves. Cave-dwelling habit may allow persistence in regions with climates otherwise unsuitable for surface activity.

Distribution

Essentially continuous range from Buenos Aires, Argentina (~34.6°S) to Delaware County, Oklahoma (~36.6°N). Documented in 20 Central and South American countries (all except Chile), three West Indian islands (Margarita, Trinidad, Tobago), and four US states (Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas). West Indian represent recent isolates from periods of lower sea levels.

Diet

Has been observed predating upon Podocnemis turtles.

Misconceptions

Previously listed as in North America, but no evidence supports this; in the United States appear to be native.

Sources and further reading