Numbers
at least 20 species in 6 genera in North America (
nearctica.com)
The genera are: Dolichoderus (4 species), Dorymyrmex (5), Forelius (2), Linepithema (2), Liometopium (4), Tapinoma (3).
Identification
single abdominal pedicel (the petiole); 12-segmented antenna without club; distinct promesonotal suture; strong constriction between mesonotum and propodeum; lack sting or acidopore, but have transverse slit-shaped cloacal opening; soft flexible integument
[adapted from description by Mississippi State U. - see Internet References below]
Remarks
The subfamily name Dolichoderinae could easily be confused with Dolichodorinae, a subfamily of nematodes (roundworms; Nematoda). Check the spelling.
Internet References
ant taxonomy - lists subfamilies and representative genera, and provides common names when known/available (Alex Wild, myrmecos.net)
preserved adult images of
Linepithema humilis at high magnification (Mississippi State U.)
Contributed by
Robin McLeod on 12 September, 2005 - 5:43pm
Additional contributions by
Chuck EntzLast updated 1 March, 2006 - 12:10am
