Notostigma

Species of Notostigma are among the largest ants found in Australia. They can be quite common where they occur, but because they forage singly and almost exclusively at night they are often overlooked. Nests are in soil, either with a moderatelly large mound or soil around the entrance (Notostigma foreli) or under stones or wood (Notostigma carazzii). Foraging activity has been reviewed by Taylor (1992).

Identification
Shattuck (1999) - The antennal sockets are separated from the rear margin of the clypeus by a gap greater than the smallest diameter of the scape. The mandibles have more than ten teeth. The simple eyes (ocelli) are present on the top of the head. They are large ants, over 10mm in total length, with elongate bodies nad long antennal scapes.

Species of Notostimgma can be separated from other formicinies by their large body size, long scapes, numerous mandibular teeth and the presence of a small opening above the hind legs (the metapleural gland opening). The are most commonly confused with larger species of Camponotus, but they differ as mentioned.

Nomenclature

 *  NOTOSTIGMA [Formicinae: Notostigmatini]
 * Notostigma Emery, 1920b: 252. Type-species: Camponotus carazzii, by original designation.