Epopostruma avicula

This species is known from a limited number of wet forested sites in south-east Australia.

Identification
The distinctly bicoloured gaster combined with the solid wing-like extensions on the postpetiole will allow separation of this species from close relatives.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Australasian Region: Australia.

Nomenclature

 *  avicula. Epopostruma avicula Shattuck, in Bolton, 2000: 57, figs. 59, 71, 86 (w.) AUSTRALIA.

Description
In full face view the lateral margin of the head between the eye and the posterior corner with an indistinct angle. Pronotal spines present, distinct. Posterior section of metanotum in approximately the same plane as the dorsal face of propodeum, the junction of these plates a shallow depression, the dorsal face of the propodeum convex. Posterior face of propodeum between bases of spines and propodeal lobes with flanges. Petiolar spines varying from indistinct and essentially absent to short, indistinct angles. Anterior face of postpetiole shorter than the dorsal face and separated from it by a broadly rounded convexity; sides of postpetiole expanded laterally in the form of thin, solid wings, their outer margins flat or weakly convex; posterolateral margin of postpetiole (immediately anterior of gaster) flat to weakly convex. Dorsum of petiole, postpetiole and gaster with numerous elongate erect hairs, the majority of which are bend near their tips. First gastral tergite smooth; gaster immediately behind attachment with gaster with a very narrow band of short longitudinal rugae. Body colour yellow-red to brown with yellow-red mandibles and legs; dorsal surface of head slightly darker than body when body yellow-red, similar in colour to body when body brown, sometimes with a small infuscated spot in central region; gaster with anterior one-quarter to one-third yellow, contrasting with the dark red-brown posterior section.

Measurements

Holotype worker. TL 3.8mm, HL 0.82mm, HW 0.83mm, CI 101, MandL 0.42mm, MandI 51, SL 0.49mm, SI 59, PronW 0.52mm, ML 0.99mm.