Rover-ant
Guides
Brachymyrmex
Rover Ants
Brachymyrmex is a genus of minute ants in the subfamily Formicinae, commonly known as rover ants. Workers are distinguished by having only nine antennal segments—fewer than most ants—and by the petiole being concealed by the gaster in dorsal view. The genus contains 44 species and 17 subspecies, though species-level identification is challenging due to minimal morphological variation, small size, and soft-bodied workers. Brachymyrmex patagonicus, the dark rover ant, has become a significant invasive pest in the southern United States and other regions worldwide.
Brachymyrmex brevicornis
Brachymyrmex brevicornis is a species of ant in the family Formicidae, originally described by Emery in 1906. The species is currently recognized as accepted in major taxonomic databases, though some sources list it as a synonym of Brachymyrmex cordemoyi. It belongs to the subfamily Formicinae and tribe Myrmelachistini. The genus Brachymyrmex consists of small, inconspicuous ants commonly known as "rover ants" that are frequently associated with human-modified environments.
Brachymyrmex depilis
Hairless Rover Ant
Brachymyrmex depilis is a North American species of rover ant in the subfamily Formicinae. The species was described by Emery in 1893. A 2019 study synonymized B. nanellus and rejected the subspecies B. depilis flavescens due to lack of significant morphological differences. The common name "Hairless Rover Ant" reflects its relatively glabrous appearance compared to congeners.
Brachymyrmex obscurior
Seaside Rover Ant
Brachymyrmex obscurior is a small ant species in the family Formicidae, commonly known as the Seaside Rover Ant. It is recognized as a globally distributed invasive tramp ant species, particularly prevalent in tropical and subtropical urban environments. The species has been documented in the conterminous United States, Hawaii, and Brazil, among other regions. It is frequently associated with human-modified habitats and is considered part of the community of invasive ant species that dominate urban landscapes in areas such as Florida.