Pheidole dentata

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Hymenoptera
Superfamily: Formicoidea
Family: Formicidae
Subfamily: Myrmicinae
Tribe: Attini
Genus: Pheidole
Species: dentata

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Pheidole dentata: /faɪˈdoʊli dɛnˈtɑːtə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Pheidole dentata casent0104240 head 1 by April Nobile. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Pheidole dentata casent0103872 dorsal 1 by April Nobile. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Pheidole dentata casent0103882 head 1 by April Nobile. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Pheidole dentata casent0103883 head 1 by April Nobile. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Summary

Pheidole dentata is a common species of ant found in the southern United States, known for its toothed propodeal spines and diverse diet including insects, seeds, and honeydew. It exhibits age-associated task changes and a complex neurochemical basis for behavior.

Physical Characteristics

Pheidole dentata is characterized by its propodeal spines, which are toothed. While specific physical measurements are not provided, they are notable within the ant group for their appearance and structure.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic toothed propodeal spines when identifying Pheidole dentata. The appearance may also include variations in color and size compared to other Pheidole species.

Habitat

This species inhabits a variety of environments in the southern United States, typically found in regions conducive to ant colony development.

Distribution

Pheidole dentata is distributed in the southeastern United States, including states from Texas to Florida, extending into the Mid-Atlantic states and northern Mexico.

Diet

Pheidole dentata primarily feeds on live and dead insects, seeds, and honeydew.

Life Cycle

Information on the lifecycle of Pheidole dentata is not specified, but it typically follows standard ant life cycles which include stages of egg, larva, pupa, and adult.

Reproduction

Details on specific reproductive behaviors of Pheidole dentata are not provided in the source material, but ants generally reproduce via a mating flight involving queen ants.

Ecosystem Role

As a common ant species, Pheidole dentata plays an important role in its ecosystem as a scavenger and seed disperser, helping to control insect populations and contributing to soil health.

Evolution

Pheidole dentata belongs to the family Formicidae, and its evolutionary adaptations include increased task performance associated with aging and a broadening olfactory response repertoire influenced by neurochemistry.