Solenopsis amblychila

This species nests in the soil, often under stones or wood, and together with Camponotus festinatus. Reproductives were collected in a nest in April (Mackay and Mackay 2002).

Identification
A member of the Solenopsis geminata species-group.

Distribution
Southern California, Arizona, and New Mexico, western Texas and the northern states of Mexico.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Nearctic Region: United States. Neotropical Region: Mexico.

Biology
These ants are usually found in well-watered lawns in urban habitats, or in riparian areas in arid regions, although they may be found in dry habitats. They are often found at higher elevations (1,500 - 2,500 m) than Solenopsis aurea. (Mackay and Mackay 2002)

A new queen with accepted host workers and brood.

Nomenclature

 *  amblychila. Solenopsis aurea subsp. amblychila Wheeler, W.M. 1915b: 394 (w.q.m.) U.S.A. Subspecies of xyloni: Creighton, 1930b: 104; of aurea: Creighton, 1950a: 230. Junior synonym of aurea: Snelling, R.R. 1963: 7; Wheeler, G.C. & Wheeler, J. 1986g: 13. Revived from synonymy and raised to species: Trager, 1991: 168.