Colobopsis

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Colobopsis: //ˌkɒl.oʊˈbɒp.sɪs//

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Summary

Colobopsis, particularly C. saundersi, is known for its remarkable defensive adaptation of autothysis, where workers self-destruct by exploding to defend their colony.

Physical Characteristics

Soldiers and females have a cylindrical, truncated head, used by soldiers to block nest entrances. Workers can explode suicidally to defend the colony.

Identification Tips

Look for workers with extraordinarily enlarged mandibular glands and a capability for autothysis during territorial battles.

Habitat

Nests are found in hollow twigs, branches, insect galls, and nuts. Most abundant in the southern US and tropical regions like Malaysia and Brunei.

Distribution

Primarily in Malaysia and Brunei; also found throughout the southern United States.

Diet

Primarily a carnivorous diet; details about seasonal changes in diet affecting secretion color.

Predators

Territorial weaver ants (Oecophylla smaragdina) and other predatory arthropods and vertebrates.

Ecosystem Role

Role as a predatory and territorial species that engages in combat with other ant species.

Evolution

Considered a unique genus; closely related to C. explodens, part of the C. cylindrica group.

Similar Taxa

• C. explodens
• Dinomyrmex

Misconceptions

Some may confuse Colobopsis ants with other ant genera due to similar appearances.

Tags

• ants
• Colobopsis
• autothysis
• defense mechanism
• Hymenoptera