Plant-ant-interactions
Guides
Pseudomyrmex
Twig Ants, Acacia Ants
Pseudomyrmex is a genus of stinging ants in the subfamily Pseudomyrmecinae, comprising approximately 180-209 species distributed primarily in tropical and subtropical regions of the New World. The genus is characterized by large compound eyes, slender wasp-like bodies, and diurnal activity patterns. Most species are generalist twig nesters that inhabit hollow stems and dead wood, though several species have evolved obligate mutualistic relationships with myrmecophytic plants, most famously with bullhorn acacias (Acacia spp.). These mutualistic species provide aggressive defense of their host plants against herbivores and competing vegetation in exchange for nesting sites and specialized food sources.