Phragmotic-soldier
Guides
Cephalotes varians
Northern Caribbean Turtle Ant, turtle ant
Cephalotes varians is a strongly polyphenic turtle ant with three distinct female castes: small-bodied minor workers, larger phragmotic soldiers with shield-shaped heads used as living doors to block nest entrances, and reproductive gynes. The species exhibits gliding behavior, steering falls from trees using aerodynamic control. Native to the Neotropical region, it has been documented in the Florida Keys and listed as adventive in North America. Brain structure differs markedly among castes, with minor workers possessing disproportionately larger mushroom bodies associated with learning and memory, while soldiers and gynes have enlarged optic lobes.
Cryptotermes
drywood termites
Cryptotermes is a genus of drywood termites in the family Kalotermitidae, comprising approximately 70 described species with significant economic importance as structural pests. Unlike subterranean termites, species in this genus do not require soil contact and infest dry, seasoned wood directly. The genus has a global distribution spanning tropical and subtropical regions, with notable pest species including C. brevis (West Indian drywood termite) and C. dudleyi. Some species exhibit distinctive morphological adaptations, such as the recently described C. mobydicki with its elongated, whale-like soldier head.