Polyergus
is a Holarctic genus of obligate social parasites that attack the closely-related genus
Formica. They are commonly called 'Amazon ants' or 'slave-raiding ants'.
Polyergus workers are apparently unable to perform the tasks involved in nest construction, foraging, and brood care. Work is instead carried out by the host
Formica, who are captured as larvae and pupae during spectacular afternoon raids.
Polyergus breviceps slave-raiding ant with its Formica argentea host. Notice the difference in mandible shape in the two species- the sharp tines in the slave-raider for fighting, and the broad working mandibles in the host.
Sagehen Creek, California, USA
Polyergus breviceps slave-raiding ant with its Formica argentea host. Notice the difference in mandible shape in the two species- the sharp tines in the slave-raider for fighting, and the broad working mandibles in the host.
Sagehen Creek, California, USA
Canon EOS D60 |
Original size: 3076x2052 |
Current: 800x534 |
