Forelius nigriventris and Solenopsis invicta. A juxtaposition of two very different defensive strategies. The fire ant (at right) brandishes her venom on the tip of her stinger, while the opposing Forelius worker aims hers as a volatile spray. Santiago del Estero, Argentina - Alex Wild Photography - Insect Photography

Forelius

is a genus of thermophilic ants that occur in warm, open habitats throughout the Americas. These small, active insects nest in soil and are often the only ants out during the hottest parts of the day.

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Early morning sun catches a mating flight of Forelius mccooki in the Sonoran desert.

Tucson, Arizona, USA

Forelius mccooki male and worker ants gathering at the nest entrance prior to a mating flight.

Tucson, Arizona, USA

A harvester ant (Pogonomyrmex desertorum) wanders too close to a nest of little Forelius maccooki ants, who harass the intruder until she leaves.

Tucson, Arizona, USA

Forelius nigriventris and Solenopsis invicta. When Forelius gain access to a breach in a fire ant mound, a full-scale ant battle ensues. Here, a fire ant (at left) flicks a droplet of venom towards the Forelius aggressor.

Santiago del Estero, Argentina

Forelius nigriventris

Santiago del Estero, Argentina

Forelius nigriventris and Solenopsis invicta. A juxtaposition of two very different defensive strategies. The fire ant (at right) brandishes her venom on the tip of her stinger, while the opposing Forelius worker aims hers as a volatile spray.

Santiago del Estero, Argentina

Canon EOS 20D |

More details: exif |

Original size: 3248x2196 |

Current: 800x541 |

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Forelius

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