Technomyrmex taylori

Known only from the type-series, collected from a mangrove stump.

Identification
Bolton (2007) - Easily identified by its unique distribution of setae (see description section below). Each of the 7 syntypes is abraded or damaged in some way (one has the head missing) and no single specimen shows the full setal array. However, summing the setae present on each individual gives the array described above. The complete absence of setae from gastral tergites 1 - 3 appears accurate as no trace of setal pits can be seen on these sclerites in any specimen, whereas they are visible on tergite 4.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Afrotropical Region: Mozambique.

Nomenclature

 *  taylori. Engramma tailori Santschi, 1930c: 269 (w.) MOZAMBIQUE. [Also described as new (spelled taylori, justified emendation) by Santschi, in Taylor, J.S. 1931: 42.] Combination in Technomyrmex: Shattuck, 1992c: 161. See also: Bolton, 2007a: 38.

Worker
Bolton (2007) - TL 3.2 - 3.3, HL 0.78 - 0.82, HW 0.72 - 0.75, SL 0.69 - 0.75, PW 0.52 - 0.54, WL 1.04 - 1.10 (7 measured). Indices: Cl 91 94, SI 96 - 100, OI 27 - 28, EPI 88 - 93, DTI 128 - 136.

Frontal carina with a single seta, just behind the torulus. Dorsum of head posterior to this with only a single pair of setae, located about two-thirds the distance between the level of the posterior margin of the eye and the posterior margin of the head; posterior margin itself without setae. Anterior clypeal margin with a conspicuous wide median notch that is broader than long. Posterior margin of head in full-face view with a very shallow median impression. Eyes moderately large and set just in front of mid length of head (OI & EPI, above). Metathoracic spiracle on a conical tubercle. Number of setal pairs on mesosoma: pronotum 0; mesonotum 1, posteriorly on the sclerite; propodeal dorsum 0; lateral margin of propodeal declivity l. Gastral tergites 1 - 3 lack setae but the fourth gastral tergite with 2 pairs. Pubescence on first gastral tergite sparse, short and scattered, not masking the underlying cuticle. Colour of head, mesosoma, petiole and gaster uniform medium to dark brown. Middle and hind coxae fractionally lighter brown than mesosoma.

Type Material
Bolton (2007) - Syntype workers, Mozambique: (EAP and EA Portug. on data labels), Inhaka, 15.vii.1929, in mangrove stump (Taylor) [examined].