Lepisiota modesta

Although this species is collected infrequently it seems widespread across India. It seems to have a preference for relatively higher altitudes above 1200 m. Most of the specimens were collected under stones and from honey baits. (Wachkoo et al., 2021)

Identification
The medium-sized workers can be distinguished from the somewhat similar small to medium-sized Lepisiota annandalei by a combination of abundant erect setae on body, a transversally striate propodeal declivity and a bispinose petiolar dorsum; L. annandalei has sparse erect setae on the body, a smooth and shiny propodeal declivity and an emarginate petiolar dorsum. (Wachkoo et al., 2021)

Distribution
India (Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Uttarakhand) (Bharti et al. 2016; Wachkoo et al. 2020; Wachkoo et al., 2021).

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Oriental Region: India.

Nomenclature

 *  modesta. Acantholepis modesta Forel, 1894c: 412 (diagnosis in key) (w.) INDIA. Combination in Lepisiota: Bolton, 1995b: 228.

References based on Global Ant Biodiversity Informatics

 * Dias R. K. S., and K. R. K. Anuradha Kosgamage. 2012. Occurrence and species diversity of ground-dwelling worker ants (Family: Formicidae) in selected lands in the dry zone of Sri Lanka. J. Sci. Univ. Kelaniya 7: 55-72.