Abstract

The taxonomy of the rare ant genus Tatuidris is revised by studying morphological variability among 118 specimens from 52 collection events in 11 countries, and sequences of Cytochrome Oxidase 1 (CO1 ‘DNA barcodes’) of 28 specimens from 13 localities in 6 countries. Tatuidris are cryptic ants that inhabit the leaf litter of Neotropical forests from Mexico to French Guiana, central Brazil, and Peru. Based on the extent of the morphological variability encountered throughout this broad geographic range, T. kapasi is relegated to junior synonymy under T. tatusia. Analysis of barcodes indicated a pattern of genetic isolation by distance, suggesting the presence of a single species undergoing allopatric differentiation. The genus Tatuidris, thus, remains monotypic. Male and female reproductive castes are described for the first time.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.