Solenopsis
is a speciose myrmicine genus with a worldwide distribution. The group is best known for some of its larger members, the fire ants, but most of the diversity in Solenopsis is found in small subterranean species. Several species of fire ants- most notably Solenopsis invicta- have become economically important pests where introduced by human commerce.
Solenopsis pergandei queen and workers. The workers spend their entire lives underground and are nearly blind, but the queen's large eyes are used early in her life when she disperses from her natal nest to start a new colony.
Archbold Biological Station, Florida, USA
Solenopsis pergandei queen and workers. The workers spend their entire lives underground and are nearly blind, but the queen's large eyes are used early in her life when she disperses from her natal nest to start a new colony.
Archbold Biological Station, Florida, USA
Canon EOS 50D |
Original size: 4236x2860 |
Current: 800x540 |
