Probolomyrmex guanacastensis

This species has been collected in sifted debris processed through a modified Berlese-Tulgren funnel from riparian habitat in Costa Rica. This is the only record of an ergatoid queen in this genus. The presence of an ergatoid queen in Probolomyrmex is unexpected, because species with ergatoid queens normally have large colonies (Peeters, 1997). It is noteworthy that the term “ergatoid” was applied here by the authors of the species. It remains to be confirmed if the specimen was in fact a reproductive female.

Identification
Oliveira & Feitosa (2019) - Postero-ventral lobe of petiole short and rounded. Subpetiolar process weakly developed. First gastral segment with prora and a dorsal protuberance on the posterior region of gaster.

Probolomyrmex guanacastensis is similar to Probolomyrmex boliviensis but is smaller and has shorter antennal scapes.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Neotropical Region: Costa Rica.

Castes
The ergatoid female has eyes and ocelli, unlike workers (O'Keefe & Agosti 1997). Body sizes are very similar.

Nomenclature

 *  guanacastensis. Probolomyrmex guanacastensis O'Keefe & Agosti, 1998: 191, figs. 1-4 (w.q.) COSTA RICA.

Type Material

 * Holotype: COSTA RICA: Guanacaste, 8.5 km NW Bagaces: Plazuela Hacienda Monteverde, 31.viii.1996, S. O’Keefe, sift leaf debris (worker).
 * Paratype: same data as holotype, except: 1 ergatoid queen, (see www.antweb.org; specimen CASENT0104673).