Camponotus dryandrae

Very large, widespread species that is common in the Darling Range. Nests in the Darling Range are often found in compacted laterite clay around the boles of trees, but are also made directly into soil. C. dryandrae is found in the south-west and goldfields of Western Australia. (Heterick 2009)

Identification
Heterick (2009) - The distribution of erect and sub-erect setae on the propodeum distinguishes Camponotus nigriceps from the similar C. dryandrae; setae being continuous along the propodeal dorsum in C. nigriceps, and concentrated near the propodeal angle in C. dryandrae.

Camponotus prostans and C. dryandrae are very difficult to separate on morphological characters alone. The only reliable feature is the reduced number of setae found on the venter of the head capsule in C. prostans, a feature that requires examination through a microscope. However, in the field their rich reddish- or yellowish-brown-and-black colouration separates most workers of C. dryandrae from the more sober, uniformly blackish or brown-and-black C. prostans.

Distribution
Central and south-western Australia (McArthur and Adams 1996), common in the Darling Range (Heterick 2009).

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Australasian Region: Australia.

Nomenclature

 *  dryandrae. Camponotus dryandrae McArthur, in McArthur & Adams, 1996: 27, fig. 19 (s.w.) AUSTRALIA.