is a small subterranean formicine ant known for specialized relationships with hemipterans that feed on plant roots. Species are found in warmer regions around the world.
Mating Acropyga epedana ants, the queen carrying a mealybug in her mandibles. Acropyga live nearly entirely by consuming secretions of root-feeding mealybugs, and the mealybugs depend on the ants for dispersal and protection. When young queen ants leave the nest to mate and start new colonies, they take a mealybug with them.
Portal, Arizona, USA
