Tetramorium grandinode

Identification
The remarkable lateral extension of the postpetiole node (NW2 [node width of postpetiole] 0.590-0.875) distinguishes T. grandinode from all other species in the Tetramorium-solidum group.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Afrotropical Region: Namibia, South Africa.

Biology
This species has been recorded from the following habitats: Karoo (sandy plain next to dry river bed; dolerite hills; and rocky ridges with sparsely distributed shrubs; and Koedoesberge-Moordenaars karoo), and Plain Gariep desert. It has been recorded nesting in deep soil on a flood plain. Specimens of these species were collected using pitfall traps, tuna bait, sugar bait, and cookie bait.

Nomenclature

 *  grandinode. Tetramorium grandinode Santschi, 1913c: 308 (w.) SOUTH AFRICA. Senior synonym of hopensis: Bolton, 1980: 247.
 * hopensis. Tetramorium grandinode var. hopensis Forel, 1914d: 223 (w.q.) SOUTH AFRICA. Junior synonym of grandinode: Bolton, 1980: 247.