Colobopsis obliqua

(Smith, 1930)

Oblique Gate-keeper Ant

Colobopsis obliqua is a of in the Formicinae, first described by Smith in 1930. It belongs to a known for specialized defensive behaviors, including the 'exploding ant' phenomenon where rupture their bodies to release toxic secretions. The species is commonly referred to as the 'Oblique Gate-keeper Ant' due to the characteristic shape of major used to block nest entrances.

Colobopsis obliqua by (c) Raven Dandridge, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Raven Dandridge. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Colobopsis obliqua: /kɔləˈbɒpsɪs əˈblɪkwə/

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Identification

Identification relies on morphological examination, particularly the distinctive oblique profile in major that gives the its name. The plug-shaped head of major workers serves as a diagnostic feature distinguishing this species from other Colobopsis. are smaller and lack the enlarged head structure, making them more difficult to distinguish from related species without detailed morphological analysis.

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Habitat

, inhabiting tropical forest . Nests are established in tree cavities and branches.

Distribution

Tropical regions of Southeast Asia. Specific locality data is sparse in available sources.

Behavior

Major serve as 'doorkeepers,' using their enlarged, plug-shaped to physically barricade nest entrances against intruders. This defensive strategy is characteristic of the Colobopsis.

Ecological Role

occupying , contributing to structure in tropical forests through and competitive interactions.

Similar Taxa

Colobopsis explodensBoth belong to the Colobopsis cylindrica group and share habits and . C. explodens is distinguished by its documented 'exploding' defensive in and bright gland secretion, features not confirmed for C. obliqua.
Other Colobopsis cylindrica group speciesMultiple undescribed or poorly known in this group share the characteristic major and nesting habits, requiring detailed examination for accurate identification.

More Details

Taxonomic Note

The was originally described by Smith in 1930. The Colobopsis has undergone taxonomic revisions, with many species previously placed in now transferred to Colobopsis. The specific epithet 'obliqua' refers to the oblique profile of the major 's .