Sphinctomyrmex

Species of Sphinctomyrmex are specialist predators of other ants. They forage primarily below ground, only rarely on the surface. Most species lack fully winged queens and have, instead, worker-like (ergatoid) queens. Workers have a relatively heavy integument with angles and teeth for protection during raids. Nests are in soil and under stones and contain several hundred workers and up to 20 or more ergatoid queens.



Worker of S. trux from Queensland.



Worker of S. mjobergi from New South Wales.

Identification
Sphinctomyrmex can be separated from Cerapachys (the only other genus of the subfamily known from Australia) by the shape of the gaster. In Sphinctomyrmex the junctions between the last four segments of the gaster are separated by distinct constrictions so that in profile the upper surface of the gaster forms a series of convexities. This shape is unique to Sphinctomyrmex and should allow ready identification of members of this genus.

Distribution and Habitats
Australian distribution

Regional Species Lists

 * Australia

Keys to Species

 * Australia