Nomamyrmex esenbeckii

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Nomamyrmex esenbeckii: /nɔˌmamɪəˈmɛks ɛzɛnˈbɛki.aɪ/

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Summary

Nomamyrmex esenbeckii is a heavily armored army ant species, the largest of its kind in the US, primarily found in the southern United States and down to Paraguay. It is a specialist raider known for preying on other ant species, particularly Atta leaf-cutter ants, and is significantly impacted by habitat fragmentation.

Physical Characteristics

Very heavily armored ants. Nomamyrmex and Labidus are noted for an obvious small tooth on the inside curve of the tarsal claw found across all castes, males and females.

Identification Tips

Look for the small tooth on the tarsal claw, characteristic of Nomamyrmex and Labidus species. They are also the largest doryline ants in the US.

Habitat

Typically found in relatively undisturbed habitats, such as forests and plains in the Neotropics.

Distribution

From Hidalgo and Cameron Counties in Texas to Paraguay. Rare in the US with tentative records north near King Ranch, recent sightings in Riviera, TX.

Diet

Specialist raider of other ant species, including mature colonies of Atta leaf-cutter ants and Pogonomyrmex barbatus.

Reproduction

Army ant queens cannot fly for dispersal due to lack of wings, making them susceptible to habitat fragmentation.

Conservation Status

Rare in the US and likely declining due to habitat fragmentation.

Ecosystem Role

Predator of other ant species, playing a significant role in controlling the populations of those species.

Similar Taxa

• Labidus

Misconceptions

Due to their rarity in certain regions, they may be mistaken for other common ant species.

Tags

• Nomamyrmex
• Army Ants
• Dorylinae
• Predatory Ants
• Rarity