Arboreal-ants
Guides
Colobopsis etiolata
Pale Gate-keeper Ant
Colobopsis etiolata is a species of ant in the genus Colobopsis, originally described by Wheeler in 1904. It belongs to a genus characterized by specialized defensive castes, including 'doorkeeper' majors with enlarged, plug-shaped heads used to block nest entrances. The species is part of the Colobopsis cylindrica group, which includes the well-known 'exploding ants' that exhibit autothysis (self-sacrificial body rupture) as a defensive mechanism. As a member of this group, C. etiolata likely shares the arboreal, canopy-dwelling habits typical of these Southeast Asian forest ants.
Colobopsis impressa
Common Gate-keeper Ant
Colobopsis impressa is a species of arboreal ant in the subfamily Formicinae, commonly known as the Common Gate-keeper Ant. The species belongs to a genus noted for specialized defensive morphologies, including major workers with plug-shaped heads used to block nest entrances. While detailed species-level studies are limited, the species has been documented across Southeast Asian forests. Its biology appears consistent with the broader Colobopsis cylindrica species group, though specific behavioral observations for C. impressa remain sparse.
Pseudomyrmecinae
big-eyed tree ants, big-eyed ants
Pseudomyrmecinae is a subfamily of slender, hyperoptic arboreal ants comprising three genera: Pseudomyrmex (~200 species, Neotropical), Tetraponera (~100 species, Palaeotropical), and Myrcidris (two species, South America). The subfamily originated in the Palaeotropics during the Cretaceous and later dispersed to South America, where it underwent significant diversification. At least twelve independent origins of obligate mutualisms with domatia-bearing plants have occurred within this group, making it the most diverse plant-occupying ant lineage worldwide.