Metapone balinensis

Known only from the holotype alate gyne.

Identification
Taylor and Alpert (2016) - The clypeal conformation, with its “moustache” of bristles is unique among known Metapone species.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Indo-Australian Region: Indonesia.

Nomenclature

 *  balinensis. Metapone balinensis Taylor & Alpert, 2016: 523, figs. 56-61 (q.) INDONESIA.

Queen
TL 8.2; HL 1.68; HW (across eyes) 1.21; CI 72; MSL 2.64; PW 0.96; PetW 0.52; PetH 1.0600; PpetW 0.81.

Gyne diagnosis. General and diagnostic features as illustrated and reviewed in the key to Asian species above. Clypeus extended as a short rostrate process, narrowing slightly anteriorly; anterior border convex with subdentate anterolateral angles and an associated parallel groove beneath its leading edge bearing six anteriorly directed bristle-like setae. Posterior sections of lateral margins of clypeus (those in cranial conjunction) sub-parallel, somewhat vestigially incised. Profile of subpetiolar edge sinuate, markedly concave anteriorly, the posterior outline inflated ventrally to form a semicircular protrusion. Subpetiolar extension a small subopaque tabulate process, higher than wide and posteriorly inclined. Sculpturation essentially as described below for M. wallaceana. Dimensions:

Type Material
Indonesia: western Bali [08°S, 115°E]. The specimen label reads “W. Bali” without further locality data.

References based on Global Ant Biodiversity Informatics

 * Taylor R. W., and G. D. Alpert. 2016. The myrmicine ant genus Metapone Forel (Hymenoptera: Formicidae): a global taxonomic review with descriptions of twelve new species. Zootaxa 4105(6): 501-545.