Lasiini
Lasiini
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Superfamily: Formicoidea
- Family: Formicidae
- Subfamily: Formicinae
- Tribe: Lasiini
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lasiini: //læˈsi.aɪˌnaɪ//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Lasiini is a diverse tribe of ants with approximately 470 species across 11 genera, known for their ecological roles, varying diets, habitats, and social behaviors, providing insights into ant evolution and ecology.
Physical Characteristics
Lasiini ants exhibit a wide range of physical traits, often characterized by their small to medium size with varying coloration and body structures depending on the species.
Identification Tips
Look for the distinctive segmentation and antennae of the ants within this tribe. Many species, such as Lasius, have unique behaviors and nesting habits that can aid in their identification.
Habitat
Lasiini ants can be found in a variety of habitats ranging from forests, fields, gardens, and urban areas. They often build nests underground or within decaying wood.
Distribution
This tribe is broadly distributed across various regions, with members found on all continents except Antarctica. Major concentrations include temperate and tropical regions.
Diet
Lasiini ants have diverse diets that can include honeydew, nectar, and other plant materials, as well as insects which they may prey upon or scavenge.
Life Cycle
Like other ants, Lasiini exhibit complete metamorphosis, going through egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Reproduction typically occurs during nuptial flights where queens mate with males; fertilized queens then establish new colonies.
Predators
Natural predators of Lasiini ants include birds, reptiles, and larger insects such as spiders and other predatory ants.
Ecosystem Role
Lasiini ants play significant roles in their ecosystems as decomposers, soil aerators, and as both predators and prey within food webs.
Economic Impact
Some species may be considered pests in urban areas but can also be beneficial for their role in pest control and seed dispersal.
Cultural Significance
Ants of this tribe, particularly Lasius species, are often studied for their social behavior and interactions with other organisms in ecosystems.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collecting
- Pitfall traps
- Berlese funnels
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Dry storage in envelopes
- Pinning specimens
Evolution
Lasiini ants show a diverse evolutionary history, with adaptations that suit various ecological niches, contributing to their current diversity and distribution.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
There are common misconceptions that all ants in this tribe are harmful or invasive; however, many species are beneficial and play essential roles in their ecosystems.
Tags
- Lasiini
- ants
- Formicidae
- Hymenoptera
- ecology