Formicinae
Formicinae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Superfamily: Formicoidea
- Family: Formicidae
- Subfamily: Formicinae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Formicinae: //fɔːrˈmɪsɪniː//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Formicinae is a subfamily of ants known for their specialized venom delivery system involving formic acid, widespread distribution, diverse diets, and interesting social structures related to colony formation and reproduction.
Physical Characteristics
Formicine ants have a single node-like or scale-like petiole, lacking a postpetiole. They have a circular or U-shaped opening at the apex of the abdomen (acidopore), usually fringed with hairs. They lack a functional sting, with defense provided via ejection of formic acid through the acidopore.
Identification Tips
Check for the single node-like or scale-like petiole and the absence of a postpetiole. Look for the U-shaped opening at the abdomen's apex (acidopore) and the placement of antennal sockets behind the posterior margin of the clypeus.
Habitat
Most genera found in much of Canada and all US states, with some (e.g. Nylanderia) limited to warm parts of North America and others (e.g. Myrmecocystus) primarily in western regions.
Distribution
Widespread across Canada and all US states; specific genera have more restricted distributions (e.g., Nylanderia in warm parts of North America, Myrmecocystus in western areas).
Diet
Honeydew and extrafloral nectar are major diet components; they are also effective predators and/or scavengers.
Life Cycle
Most formicines have typical colony foundation by a single queen sealed in an incipient nest. Some genera, like Polyergus, are obligate parasites, while others may invade colonies of congeners or live as inquilines.
Reproduction
Usually involve single queen for colony foundation; some engage in constitutive behaviors of invoking host colonies.
Predators
Unknown; however, they may be predated upon by various birds and other larger predators.
Conservation Status
Not assessed.
Ecosystem Role
Predators and scavengers; important for controlling pest populations and contributing to nutrient cycling.
Economic Impact
Major contributors to pest control; some genera have impacts on agriculture or urban environments due to their nesting habits.
Cultural Significance
Formicinae are commonly encountered ants, playing a role in ecosystem functions and sometimes in human culture through their interactions.
Health Concerns
Not notorious for causing allergic reactions, unlike some other ant families with more developed stings.
Collecting Methods
- Pitfall traps
- Hand collecting
- Sweeping net
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol
- Drying
- Pinned specimens
Evolution
Moderate evolutionary development, retaining some primitive features while showing advanced behaviors like slave-making and mutualism with hemipterans.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Often mistaken for other ant subfamilies due to similar morphology; unique traits like the acidopore differentiate them.
Tags
- Formicinae
- Ants
- Insects
- Hymenoptera
- Formicidae