Myrmica yani

Identification
Differential diagnosis. Myrmica yani sp. n. is a remarkable new species, belonging to the pachei group. So far, only three species (M. pachei, M. inezae and M. villosa) are recorded from the Himalayas which possess the key character of the whole mesosoma of dorsum bearing transverse rugae. Myrmica yani sp. n. differs from the M. pachei and M. inezae by having a distinctly elongated head, with narrowly rounded posterior corners; posterior third of head dorsally without longitudinal rugae and reticulation, but densely punctate; petiole with distinct, short peduncle, its anterior surface slightly convex, meeting the dorsal one to form a blunt, narrowly rounded angle; dorsal surface short, gradually sloping posteriorly; body colored yellowish brown. It differs from M. villosa by the distinctly elongated head, with narrowly rounded posterior corners; posterior third of head dorsally without longitudinal rugae, but densely punctate; propleuron with densely micropunctures and dull; dorsum of propodeum with fine transverse rugae; anterior surface of petiole slightly convex, meeting the dorsal one to form a blunt, narrowly rounded angle.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Palaearctic Region: China.

Biology
This species nests inside decayed wood in the broadleaf and coniferous forests, at elevation 1667m.

Nomenclature

 *  yani. Myrmica yani Chen, Zhue & Huang, 2016: 109, figs. 29-34 (w.q.) CHINA.

Description
Etymology. The specific epithet is the last name of a famous Chinese artist in the Tang Dynasty, Zhenqing Yan.