Strumigenys vivax

Identification
Bolton (2000) - Only the holotype of this species is known. Its relationship with Strumigenys trinidadensis is obvious and striking but the very different dentitions immediately isolate the two species. Dr Luca Bartolozzi (MZUF) has kindly agreed that the holotype should be retained in the BMNH collection.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Neotropical Region: Ecuador.

Nomenclature

 *  vivax. Strumigenys vivax Bolton, 2000: 567 (w.) ECUADOR.

Worker
Holotype. TL 3.8, HL 0.89, HW 0.73, CI 82, ML 0.63, MI 71, SL 0.67, SI 92, PW 0.43, AL 0.98. With characters of species group and mostly answering to the description of Strumigenys trinidadensis, but with radically different preapical dentition. Inner margin of mandible with a single inconspicuous preapical denticle that in full-face view does not break the outline of the margin; denticle arises at about one-third the distance from the apical tooth to the base.

Apart from this the single specimen of vivax is slightly larger than the largest trinidadensis specimen seen, though shortage of material means this may not be significant. The lower propodeal lobe in vivax is triangular, acute apically and distinctly broader-based than the tooth at the propodeal apex. The ventral spongiform crest of the petiole commences at about the midlength of the peduncle and becomes deeper posteriorly.

Type Material
Holotype worker, Ecuador: Napo, Rio Hollin, ca 1000 m., 12.ii.1993, mag. 1406 (L. Bartolozzi).