Probolomyrmex curculiformis

Probolomyrmex curculiformis is widely but patchily distributed in western Madagascar. Its known distribution ranges from the southernmost localities Tsimanampetsotsa and Amboasary to Anabohazo in the northwest. The localities are all tropical dry forest or spiny forest habitats situated at very low elevations of 20 to 130 m. Even though the new species was entirely collected by sifting litter, we suspect it is not a genuine leaf litter inhabitant. Instead, P. curculiformis is likely to be a hypogaeic species and the available material was sampled accidentally through the collection of soil for leaf litter sifting. A hypogaeic lifestyle would also explain the patchy distribution pattern. If true, intensive soil sampling in western Madagascar will likely yield more material of this species. The natural history of P. curculiformis is unknown.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Malagasy Region: Madagascar.

Nomenclature

 *  curculiformis. Probolomyrmex curculiformis Hita Garcia & Fisher, 2014: 68, figs. 1B, 2C, D, 3C, 6 (w.) MADAGASCAR.