Key to Afrotropical Strumigenys (as Pyramica)

This worker key is based on: Bolton, B. 2000. The ant tribe Dacetini. Memoirs of the American Entomological Institute. 65:1-1028.

Bolton noted: The socially parasitic P. inquilina (Strumigenys inquilina), known only from queens found in a nest of P. lujae, (Strumigenys lujae) is omitted from the key; comparative notes on the queens are given under inquilina.

This key is from a revision study that included the now synonymized genus Pyramica. Therefore there are two keys that treat two sets of Strumigenys species, the key found below (the group of species once classified as Pyramica) and a key to Afrotropical Strumigenys.

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1

 * Antenna with 4 segments; the first funicular segment followed directly by the 2-segmented club . . . . . 2


 * Antenna with 6 segments; the first funicular segment separated from the 2-segmented club by two much smaller segments . . . . . 9

2
return to couplet #1
 * Mandibles linear, elongate and narrow, without preapical teeth; MI > 25. At full closure mandibles engage only at their extreme apices and enclose a large open space between the blades; labral lobes visible between mandibles even at full closure. Cephalic dorsum with small orbicular hairs present; CI 1 00 - 107. (Ghana, Cameroun, Uganda) . . . . . Strumigenys minima


 * Mandibles short and triangular, with preapical teeth; MI 6-17. At full closure mandibles engage throughout their visible length, without a space between the blades; labral lobes not visible when mandibles fully closed . Cephalic dorsum without orbicular hairs; CI 51-88 . . . . . 3

3
return to couplet #2
 * Anterior clypeal margin convex in full-face view. Pronotal humerus with a long flagellate or stiffly projecting specialised hair. Hairs on leading edge of scape fine to narrowly spatulate, all curved toward scape apex . Basal lamella of mandible a low lobe and principal dental row with 7 teeth . . . . . 4


 * Anterior clypeal margin concave in full-face view. Pronotal humerus without a specialised projecting hair of any form . Hairs on leading edge of scape broadly spatulate to spoon-shaped, one or more distinctly curved toward the scape base. Basal lamella of mandible a long narrow triangle that may be truncated apically and principal dental row with 5 teeth . . . . . 6

4
return to couplet #3
 * Clypeus broad, its lateral margins approximately parallel. With head in full-face view the outer margins of the fully closed mandibles intersect the anterior clypeal margin mesad of the anterolateral clypeal angles, so that there is a section of the anterior clypeal margin that projects laterally beyond the outline of the mandible. Dorsum of clypeus without hairs. (Ivory Coast, Ghana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys marginata


 * Clypeus narrow, its lateral margins more or less evenly convergent anteriorly. With the head in full-face view the outer margins of the fully closed mandibles intersect the anterior clypeal margin at the anterolateral clypeal angles, so that there is no section of the anterior clypeal margin that projects laterally beyond the outline of the mandible. Dorsum of clypeus with abundant short curved hairs . . . . . 5

5
return to couplet #4
 * Pronotum sharply marginate dorsolaterally, the dorsum un sculptured. Hairs on clypeal dorsum spatulate. Metanotal groove indistinct to absent. Ventral lobe of postpetiole spongiform . Small species with short scape and broad head, HL 0.42-0.46, SI 61-67, CI 65-70. (Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroun , Gabon , Zaire, Uganda) . . . . . Strumigenys tacta


 * Pronotum not marginate dorsolaterally, the dorsum weakly sculptured. Hairs on clypeal dorsum simple. Metanotal groove broad and deeply impressed. Ventral lobe of postpetiole laminate. Larger species with very long scape and narrow head, HL 0.74, SI 116, CI 51. (Cameroun) . . . . . Strumigenys vodensa

6
return to couplet #3
 * Entire body coloured with broad alternating yellow and black transverse bands. Basigastral costulae form a continuous row across the tergite, without a central noncostulate area. Ventral spongiform crest of petiolar peduncle absent between insertion and node. (Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroun, Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys tigrilla


 * Body uniformly coloured, without alternating yellow and black broad transverse bands. Basigastral costulae radiate from each side of a non-costulate central area. Ventral spongiform crest of petiolar peduncle complete from insertion to apex of segment . . . . . 7

7
return to couplet #6
 * With head in profile the dorsum with a pair of short erect hairs close to the occipital margin. (Kenya, Tanzania, Angola, South Africa, Madagascar) . . . . . Strumigenys maxillaris


 * With head in profile the dorsum without erect hairs . . . . . 8

8
return to couplet #7
 * Anterior half of clypeus with a broad longitudinal impression mid-dorsally which is filled with short scale-like hairs that are directed toward the midline. Subbasal bend of scape extensively developed, its anterior margin strongly angular. Pronotal dorsum with dense fine longitudinal rugulae or costulae. (Ivory Coast, Ghana) . . . . . Strumigenys fulda


 * Anterior half of clypeus without a longitudinal impression mid-dorsally, this area without short scale-like hairs that are directed toward the midline. Subbasal bend of scape weakly developed, its anterior margin evenly rounded and not angled. Pronotal dorsum smooth or at most with faint superficial shagreening on the glossy surface. (Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Chad, Cameroun, Gabon , Zaire, Uganda) . . . . . Strumigenys ninda

9
return to couplet #1
 * Apical (masticatory) margin of mandible serially minutely multidenticulate or serrate, with a continuous row of well over 25 tiny denticles or a continuous finely saw-like edge. Clypeus with two anterior margins: a lower secondary margin that is convex, thinly lamellate and difficult to see, and a broader, more conspicuous primary (true) margin from which anteriorly directed hairs arise, close behind and slightly above the secondary margin . . . . . 10


 * Apical (masticatory) margin of mandible not serially minutely multidenticulate nor serrate, with distinctly fewer than 20 teeth and denticles and lacking a continuous finely saw-like edge. Clypeus with a single anterior margin; without a thinly lamellate lower secondary margin that projects farther anteriorly than the primary (true) margin . . . . . 23

10
return to couplet #9
 * Apicoscrobal hair absent: with the head in full-face view the dorsolateral margin at about the level of the apex of the scrobe without a freely laterally projecting specialised hair . . . . . 11


 * Apicoscrobal hair present: with the head in full-face view the dorsolateral margin at about the level of the apex of the scrobe with a freely laterally projecting long flagellate or fine simple hair . . . . . 17

11
return to couplet #10
 * Pronotal humerus with a freely projecting hair, which may be short and straight or long and flagellate . . . . . 12


 * Pronotal humerus lacking a freely projecting straight or flagellate hair . . . . . 14

12
return to couplet #11
 * Pronotal humerus with a short stout clavate hair. Mandibles shorter, MI 26, the basal 4-5 denticles suddenly and conspicuously enlarged. Metanotal groove not impressed. (Ghana) . . . . . Strumigenys miccata


 * Pronotal humerus with a long fine flagellate hair. Mandibles longer, MI 32 - 45, the basal 4 - 5 denticles not enlarged . Metanotal groove impressed . . . . . 13

13
return to couplet #12
 * Mandibles and scapes relatively long, MI > 40, SI > 120. All hairs on leading edge of scape curved toward the scape apex. Cephalic dorsum with a transverse row of 4 erect hairs along the occipital margin, but without a pair of erect hairs anterior to this row. Mesopleuron entirely reticulate-punctate. (Cameroun) . . . . . Strumigenys sulumana


 * Mandibles and scapes relatively short, MI < 40, SI 100 or less. Some hairs on leading edge of scape curved toward the scape base. Cephalic dorsum with a transverse row of 2 or 4 erect hairs along the occipital margin, and with a pair of erect hairs anterior to this row, at about the highest point of the vertex . Mesopleuron mostly or entirely smooth and shining. (Cameroun, Zaire) . . . . . Strumigenys bequaerti

14
return to couplet #11
 * Pronotal dorsum sculptured, either costulate or reticulate-punctulate, or with a mixture of these . . . . . 15


 * Pronotal dorsum utterly lacking sculpture, glassy smooth everywhere . . . . . 16

15
return to couplet #14
 * Vertex in profile with 2 - 3 pairs of stout standing hairs. Pronotal dorsum densely sharply costulate, the spaces between costulae smooth and glossy. Pronotal ground pilosity of numerous curved broadly spatulate hairs that are very conspicuous. Upper scrobe margins delimited by broad projecting flanges that do not peter out posteriorly. (Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroun, Annobon I., Congo, Zaire, Angola, Burundi, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys maynei


 * Vertex in profile with a single pair of stout standing hairs. Pronotal dorsum sparsely weakly costulate, the spaces between costulae reticulate-punctate to shagreenate and dull. Pronotal ground-pilosity of sparse narrowly spatulate hairs that are difficult to see. Upper scrobe margins delimited by narrow edges that peter out posteriorly. (Cameroun, Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys depilosa

16
return to couplet #14
 * Mesonotum in dorsal view with elevated and strongly prominent anterolateral angles. Mesonotum and dorsum of propodeum without sculpture, as smooth and shiny as pronotum . With head in profile the scrobe deep and strongly defined throughout, its dorsal margin a continuous very sharply projecting flange to its apex. Head broader and scape shorter, CI 90, SI 73 - 74. (Cameroun) . . . . . Strumigenys geoterra


 * Mesonotum in dorsal view without elevated prominent anterolateral angles. Mesonotum and dorsum of propodeum finely reticulate-punctate, not as smooth and shiny as pronotum. With head in profile the scrobe shallow and fading out posteriorly, its dorsal margin hardly discernible posterior to level of eye. Head narrower and scape longer, CI 74 - 75, SI 86 - 89 . (Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys lucifuga

17
return to couplet #10
 * Principal sculpture of pronotal dorsum consisting of superficial to dense reticulate-punctation, with or without overlying costulate or striate sculpture. When such overlying sculpture is present it is distinctly secondary to the dense punctate component . . . . . 18


 * Principal sculpture of pronotal dorsum consisting of longitudinal to oblique costulae or striae, or the surface mostly to entirely un sculptured and smooth ; punctate sculpture usually absent but when present is very feeble and distinctly secondary to the costulate or striate component . . . . . 21

18
return to couplet #17
 * With the head in full-face view the basal series of 4 - 8 denticles on the mandible suddenly enlarged, broader longer and coarser than those preceding; usually this enlarged series very distinct, especially when mandibles open. (Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Benin, Nigeria, Cameroun, Gabon, Congo, Zaire, Angola, Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, Thnzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Madagascar, Mauritius) . . . . . Strumigenys ludovici


 * With the head in full-face view the basal series of denticles on the mandible not enlarged, the denticles either approximately the same size throughout the length of the mandible or very evenly and gradually increasing in size basally . . . . . 19

19
return to couplet #18
 * Mesonotum with 3 - 4 pairs of short erect stiff hairs, the posteriormost pair situated at or close to the metanotal groove. Ground-pilosity of promesonotum strong, not reclinate, conspicuous in profile. Punctate sculpture of head and alitrunk strong and sharply defined. (Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroun, Gabon , Sao Tome & Principe, Congo, Zaire, Angola, Sudan, Kenya, Chad, Uganda, Burundi) . . . . . Strumigenys serrula


 * Mesonotum usually with a single pair of erect, apically thickened to strongly clavate hairs, situated anteriorly on the sclerite. Very rarely a second pair present but if so these are very close to the first pair and remote from the metanotal groove. Ground pilosity of promesonotum feeble, mostly or entirely reclinate, inconspicuous in profile. Punctate sculpture on head and alitrunk usually fine . . . . . 20

20
return to couplet #19
 * With head in profile cephalic dorsum with a pair of relatively slender simple standing hairs in front of highest point of vertex; 4 similar hairs present near occipital margin. With the head in full-face view the upper scrobe margins not indented at the site of the apicoscrobal hair. Postpetiole in profile with more than one pair of standing hairs. (Guinea, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroun, Gabon, Zaire, Sao Tome & Principe, Equatorial Guinea, Angola, Sudan, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Kenya, Thnzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys lujae


 * With head in profile cephalic dorsum without standing hairs in front of highest point of vertex; 2-4 apically thickened to clavate standing hairs present near occipital margin. With head in full-face view the upper scrobe margins usually conspicuously indented at the site of the apicoscrobal hair. Postpetiole in profile with only a single pair of standing hairs. (Guinea, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroun, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Zaire, Angola, Chad, Kenya, Uganda) . . . . . Strumigenys concolor

21
return to couplet #17
 * Pronotum (at the humeri) and mesonotum each with a pair of exceptionally long fine flagellate hairs. First gastral tergite with only a single pair of long simple hairs, which are not thickened or clavate apically and are situated close to the base of the sclerite. (Cameroun, Gabon, Congo, Zaire) . . . . . Strumigenys dotaja


 * Pronotum (at the humeri) with flagellate hairs but mesonotum never with such hairs. Usually the mesonotum with a single pair (very rarely 2 pairs) of stout hairs which are thickened or clavate apically. First gastral tergite with hairs that are thickened or clavate apically . . . . . 22

22
return to couplet #21
 * Cephalic dorsum behind highest point of vertex with a single pair of standing curved clavate hairs. With postpetiole in profile the area of the ventral spongiform lobe less than that of the exposed portion of the postpetiole disc. With head in full-face view the basal 4-8 denticles on the mandible often enlarged, broader longer and coarser than those preceding. (Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Benin, Nigeria, Cameroun , Gabon , Congo, Zaire, Angola, Sudan, Kenya, Uganda, Thnzania, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Madagascar, Mauritius) . . . . . Strumigenys ludovici


 * Cephalic dorsum behind highest point of vertex with two, or rarely three, pairs of standing curved clavate hairs. With postpetiole in profile the area of the ventral spongiform lobe distinctly greater than that of the exposed portion of the postpetiole disc. With head in full-face view the mandibular denticles always small fine and regular to the base. (Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, Uganda, Zaire, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Angola, Botswana, South Africa, Madagascar, Mauritius) . . . . . Strumigenys simoni

23
return to couplet #9
 * Leading edge of scape with a row of very conspicuous projecting broadly spatulate to spoon-shaped hairs, one or more of which are distinctly curved or inclined toward the base of the scape or (rarely) all of which are at right-angles to the long axis of the scape . . . . . 24


 * Leading edge of scape either with freely projecting simple to wire-like filiform hairs that may be straight, angled or sinuate, or leading edge of scape with fine simple to narrowly spatulate hairs only (if so then all are directed toward the apex of the scape), or rarely the scape without hairs of any description . . . . . 48

24
return to couplet #23
 * With head in full-face view exposed portions of mandibles long and narrow, only engaging near their extreme apices at full closure; proximally with an elongate gap bordered by the masticatory margins of the mandibles and the anterior clypeal margin, the labral lobes visible through the gap . . . . . 25


 * With head in full-face view exposed portions of mandibles short and triangular, engaging throughout their length at full closure; proximally without a triangular gap and the labral lobes not visible . . . . . 33

25
return to couplet #24
 * Subbasal bend of scape developed into a large anteriorly directed lobe. Spongiform tissue of waist segments vestigial or absent. Head broader than long (CI 115 or more). Anterior clypeal margin with 2-3 pairs of long strap-like or filiform hairs that project anteriorly . . . . . 26


 * Subbasal bend of scape rounded, not projecting as a large lobe. Spongiform tissue of waist segments distinctly developed. Head longer than broad (CI < 80). Anterior clypeal margin with a row of short spatulate hairs . . . . . 31

26
return to couplet #25
 * Cephalic dorsum with numerous large orbicular hairs present; highest point of vertex without a transverse row of short erect remiform hairs. Projecting row of long hairs on anterior clypeal margin broad and strap-like . . . . . 27


 * Cephalic dorsum without orbicular hairs; highest point of vertex with a transverse row of short erect remiform hairs. Projecting row of long hairs on anterior clypeal margin slender, filiform. (Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys anorbicula

27
return to couplet #26
 * Apicodorsal tooth of mandible spiniform and extremely long, enormously longer than the ventral tooth of the apical vertical series . . . . . 28


 * Apicodorsal tooth of mandible dentiform to short spiniform, at most only fractionally longer than the ventral tooth of the apical vertical series . . . . . 29

28
return to couplet #27
 * Mandible with a single small preapical tooth that is situated very close to the apicodorsal tooth. Area of head immediately behind posterior clypeal margin with appressed small spatulate hairs; large orbicular hairs present more posteriorly on the vertex. Large hairs on leading edge of scape curved toward apex of subbasal lobe. (Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroun, Zaire) . . . . . Strumigenys roomi


 * Mandible with 2 preapical teeth that are situated on the distal half of the blade. Area of head immediately behind posterior clypeal margin with orbicular hairs; orbicular hairs also present more posteriorly on the vertex. Large hairs on leading edge of scape directed at right angles to long axis of scape. (Zaire) . . . . . Strumigenys mormo

29
return to couplet #27
 * Dorsal surface of mandible without flattened hairs arising from it on the distal half. Posterior half of mesonotum convex and distinctly humped in profile. (Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroun, Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys laticeps


 * Dorsal surface of mandible with two flattened hairs arising from it on the distal half. Posterior half of mesonotum not humped in profile . . . . . 30

30
return to couplet #29
 * Mandible with a single small preapical tooth, located close to the apex. Proximal flattened hair on dorsum of mandible arising at about the midlength of the closed mandible. Outer strap-like hair on anterior clypeal margin extending forward to the midlength of the mandible at most. (Ivory Coast, Ghana) . . . . . Strumigenys tiglath


 * Mandible with two small preapical teeth, located close to the apex. Proximal flattened hair on dorsum of mandible arising well distal of the midlength of the closed mandible. Outer strap-like hair on anterior clypeal margin extending forward well beyond the midlength of the mandible. (Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys marchosias

31
return to couplet #25
 * Dorsal surfaces of head and alitrunk with abundant curved or sinuate fine pilosity; the humeral angles and mesonotum with flagellate hairs present. Anterior clypeal margin convex medially. Scapes subcylindical, not conspicuously dorsoventrally flattened. Mandible with a shallow rounded basal lamella that is partially visible when mandibles fully closed; MI > 40. (Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys lasia


 * Dorsal surfaces of head and alitrunk with inconspicuous minute appressed pubescence only; the humeral angles and mesonotum without flagellate hairs. Anterior clypeal margin evenly shallowly concave across its width. Scapes distinctly dorsoventrally flattened. Mandible with a high truncated-triangular basal lamella that is concealed by the clypeus when mandibles fully closed; MI < 25 . . . . . 32

32
return to couplet #31
 * First gastral tergite with numerous standing hairs. With waist in profile erect to suberect hairs distributed all over dorsal surfaces of both segments; posterior margin of petiole and postpetiole without a row of decumbent spatulate hairs that project backwards over the spongiform collar. Pronotum marginate dorsolaterally. Head in profile incredibly dorsoventrally compressed, wafer-thin. (Cameroun, Zaire) . . . . . Strumigenys tethepa


 * First gastral tergite without standing hairs. With waist in profile erect to suberect hairs absent from dorsal surfaces of both segments; posterior margin of petiole and postpetiole each with an inconspicuous transverse row of decumbent spatulate hairs that project backwards over the spongiform collar. Pronotum not marginate dorsolaterally. Head not remarkably dorsoventrally compressed. (Cameroun) . . . . . Strumigenys terroni

33
return to couplet #24
 * With head in full-face view and the mandibles fully closed the dorsal surface of each mandible basally with a very distinct transverse sharp edge or rim running across the width of the blade, parallel to and in front of the anterior clypeal margin; the mandible surface between this rim and the clypeal margin deeply depressed. (Cosmopolitan tramp species) . . . . . Strumigenys membranifera


 * With the head in full-face view and the mandibles fully closed the dorsal surface of each mandible basally entire, without a transverse edge or rim running across the width of the blade, without a depressed area in front of the clypeal margin . . . . . 34

34
return to couplet #33
 * First gastral tergite without standing hairs of any form on the entire sclerite . . . . . 35


 * First gastral tergite with standing hairs which are usually numerous but which may be restricted to a single basal pair and a single apical pair . . . . . 37

35
return to couplet #34
 * With the head in full-face view the clypeal dorsum studded with large flattened suborbicular hairs that are as conspicuous as the marginal fringe of projecting hairs. Entire dorsum behind the clypeus densely clothed with similar suborbicular hairs. Scale-like appressed hairs sparse but obvious on dorsal alitrunk and disc of postpetiole. (Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroun, Gabon , Angola) . . . . . Strumigenys sharra


 * With the head in full-face view the clypeal dorsum without hairs or at most with minute appressed pubescence that is by no means as conspicuous as the marginal fringe of projecting hairs. Dorsum behind clypeus either without flattened suborbicular hairs, or with them restricted to a sharply defined transverse band immediately in front of the occipital margin . Scale-like appressed hairs absent from dorsal alitrunk and disc of postpetiole . . . . . 36

36
return to couplet #35
 * Cephalic dorsum with a transverse band of broadly scale-like to suborbicular hairs just in front of the occipital margin. Upper scrobe margin in full-face view fringed with a row of closely appressed small spoon-shaped hairs that are curved anteriorly. (Ghana) . . . . . Strumigenys chyatha


 * Cephalic dorsum without a transverse band of broadly scale-like to suborbicular hairs in front of the occipital margin . Upper scrobe margin in full-face view without fringing pilosity. (Ivory Coast) . . . . . Strumigenys impidora

37
return to couplet #34
 * With head in full-face view and mandibles fully closed the basal lamella clearly visible in front of the anterior clypeal margin; the lamella effectively separates the basalmost mandibular tooth from the line of the anterior clypeal margin. Anterior clypeal margin transverse. (South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys transversa


 * With head in full-face view and mandibles fully closed the basal lamella invisible, completely concealed beneath clypeus; basal most mandibular teeth immediately follow anterior clypeal margin. Anterior clypeal margin usually evenly shallowly concave, less commonly transverse . . . . . 38

38
return to couplet #37
 * Base of first gastral tergite with median area distinctly depressed and concave, the sclerite with a dented appearance. First gastral tergite in dorsal view with suture line between limbus and sclerite proper distinctly arched-concave on each side of the midline. Maximum diameter of eye conspicuously greater than maximum width of scape. Scapes relatively long, SI 71-83 . . . . . 39


 * Base of first gastral tergite without a depressed concave median area. First gastral tergite in dorsal view with suture line between limbus and sclerite proper approximately transverse, or shallowly concave across the entire width, or weakly sinuate. Maximum diameter of eye at most subequal to, but usually much less than, maximum width of scape. Scapes shorter, SI 58 - 67 . . . . . 43

39
return to couplet #38
 * Mesonotal dorsum with 3-4 pairs of erect bristle-like simple or slightly flattened to weakly remiform hairs that may be straight or shallowly curved . . . . . 40


 * Mesonotal dorsum with all hairs short and spoon-shaped, strongly curved to subappressed . . . . . 42

40
return to couplet #39
 * Pronotum with erect simple hairs similar to those on mesonotum. Pronotal humerus with a laterodorsally projecting elongate simple hair. Cephalic dorsum from clypeus to highest point of vertex without conspicuous spoon-shaped hairs. With head in full-face view lateral margin of occipital lobe with freely laterally projecting simple curved hairs. (South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys noara


 * Pronotum with small spoon-shaped hairs that are strongly curved to reclinate, without erect simple hairs such as are present on mesonotum. Pronotal humerus without an elongate simple hair. Cephalic dorsum from clypeus to highest point of vertex with very conspicuous spoon-shaped hairs. With head in full-face view lateral margin of occipital lobe with small curved spoon-shaped hairs . . . . . 41

41
return to couplet #40
 * Pleurae and side of propodeum mostly to entirely smooth. Simple curved standing hairs numerous between highest point of vertex and occipital margin of head, contrasting strongly with the spoon-shaped ground-pilosity. (Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Cameroun) . . . . . Strumigenys exunca


 * Pleurae and side of propodeum mostly or entirely reticulate to reticulate-punctate. Simple curved standing hairs that contrast strongly with the spoon-shaped ground pilosity absent from head; sometimes a single transverse row of slightly more elevated narrower spoon-shaped hairs present immediately in front of the occipital margin. (Zimbabwe, South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys robertsoni

42
return to couplet #39
 * Pronotal dorsum and side smooth and shining. Pleurae and side of propodeum with smooth un sculptured areas. SI 70-75. Head and alitrunk medium brown, gaster blackish brown. (Burundi) . . . . . Strumigenys subsessa


 * Pronotal dorsum and side shallowly but distinctly sculptured. Pleurae and side of propodeum entirely reticulate to reticulate-punctate. SI 78-83. Head, alitrunk and gaster entirely dull yellow. (South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys emarginata

43
return to couplet #38
 * In full-face view cephalic dorsum with appressed suborbicular hairs present; dorsolateral margin from apex of scrobe to occipital corner without laterally projecting hairs, any that are present are closely appressed to the surface. In profile cephalic dorsum behind highest point of vertex without standing hairs of any form . . . . . 44


 * In full-face view cephalic dorsum without appressed suborbicular hairs; dorsolateral margin from apex of scrobe to occipital comer with one to many laterally projecting hairs. In profile cephalic dorsum behind highest point of vertex with standing hairs, at least close to the occipital margin . . . . . 45

44
return to couplet #43
 * Clypeal dorsum densely clothed with large suborbicular hairs; cephalic dorsum behind clypeus with similar hairs evenly distributed over entire surface. (Ghana, Cameroun, Gabon, Zaire, Angola) . . . . . Strumigenys cavinasis


 * Clypeal dorsum sparsely clothed with appressed small spatulate hairs; cephalic dorsum behind clypeus with a transverse band of small suborbicular hairs immediately behind the level of the frontal lobes and another immediately in front of the occipital margin. (Cameroun, Gabon, Zaire) . . . . . Strumigenys behasyla

45
return to couplet #43
 * Anterior clypeal margin transverse. With alitrunk in profile the dorsum with 6-7 pairs of erect hairs, present on pronotum and mesonotum. Most or all of pleurae and side of propodeum sharply reticulate to reticulate-punctate. Base of first gastral tergite with limbus broad and spongiform, the basigastral costulae commencing behind the limbus and not impinging upon it. (Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroun, Gabon, Zaire, Angola) . . . . . Strumigenys hensekta


 * Anterior clypeal margin concave. With alitrunk in profile the dorsum with 1-3 pairs of erect hairs, all on the mesonotum . Most or all of pleurae and side of propodeum smooth and shining. Base of first gastral tergite with limbus lamellate, the basigastral costulae running across the limbus to the basal margin . . . . . 46

46
return to couplet #45
 * Pronotal dorsum glassy smooth and highly polished between very widely scattered small punctures. Propodeal dorsum and declivity entirely smooth and shining. (Rwanda) . . . . . Strumigenys gatuda


 * Pronotal dorsum uniformly closely sculptured, subopaque to opaque. Propodeal dorsum, and declivity at least between the teeth, reticulate-punctate . . . . . 47

47
return to couplet #46
 * With the head in full-face view the dorsolateral margin behind the level of the apex of the scrobe without freely laterally projecting hairs. Disc of postpetiole sharply longitudinally costulate. Head and alitrunk dark brown to blackish brown. (Rwanda) . . . . . Strumigenys datissa


 * With the head in full-face view the dorsolateral margin behind the level of the apex of the scrobe with a number of conspicuous freely laterally projecting curved hairs. Disc of postpetiole usually smooth, only rarely sculptured . Head and alitrunk dull yellow to light yellowish brown. (Cameroun, Equatorial Guinea, Zaire, Rwanda, Burundi , Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania) . . . . . Strumigenys truncatidens

48
return to couplet #23
 * Dorsum of pronotum extremely coarsely sculptured with strong rugae or sulci which are close packed and give a very coarse overall appearance; without broad shining areas between the rugae or sulci. In full-face view dorsolateral margin of head with abundant (usually more than 10 on each side) freely projecting long fine simple to wire-like hairs which are curved, recurved or flexuous . . . . . 49


 * Dorsum of pronotum varying from smooth to reticulate-punctate; feebly striate sculpture or extremely fine superficial rugulae may occur but coarse rugae or sulci are always absent. In full-face view dorsolateral margin of head either lacking freely projecting long hairs, or with a few short straight simple hairs, or with 1-5 long flagellate hairs . . . . . 62

49
return to couplet #48
 * Disc of postpetiole densely, strongly and coarsely longitudinally costulate . . . . . 50


 * Disc of postpetiole smooth and unsculptured, or feebly punctate, or weakly striolate, but never strongly longitudinally costulate . . . . . 52

50
return to couplet #49
 * Disc of postpetiole in dorsal view surrounded on all sides by dense spongiform material. Transverse spongiform collars behind petiole and postpetiole broad and complete. Limbus broad, densely spongiform . Pronotal dorsum coarsely longitudinally rugose . . . . . 51


 * Disc of postpetiole in dorsal view with spongiform material only developed posteriorly and posterolaterally. Transverse spongiform collars behind petiole and postpetiole interrupted medially. Limbus narrow, only very weakly spongiform . Pronotal dorsum irregularly reticulate-rugose. (Zimbabwe) . . . . . Strumigenys nykara

51
return to couplet #50
 * Head exceptionally long and narrow, CI 54-59, HL 0.68-0.76. With head in profile the dorsal outline shallowly concave between the level of the antennal insertions and the highest point of the vertex ; standing hairs in this zone short and bristle-like, straight or slightly curved. Antennal scape slightly longer, SI 73-78. (Ivory Coast, Ghana) . . . . . Strumigenys minkara


 * Head shorter and broader, CI > 60, HL 0.58-0.66. With head in profile the dorsal outline flat to shallowly convex between the level of the antennal insertions and the highest point of the vertex ; standing hairs in this zone fine and curved, flexuous or arching over. Antennal scape slightly shorter, SI 68-74. (Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroun, Gabon, Congo, Zaire) . . . . . Strumigenys enkara

52
return to couplet #49
 * With the alitrunk in profile the metanotal groove distinctly impressed . . . . . 53


 * With the alitrunk in profile the metanotal groove vestigial to absent, the dorsal outline continuous or at most with an extremely shallow indentation . . . . . 55

53
return to couplet #42
 * Posterior spongiform collar of postpetiole very deeply indented medially, the indentation reaching forward to the posterior margin of the disc. Hairs on dorsum of head consisting of small appressed ground-pilosity and much larger erect subclavate hairs. Counting from the mandibular base the first tooth very much smaller than the third. (Zaire) . . . . . Strumigenys weberi


 * Posterior spongiform collar of postpetiole very shallowly indented medially, the indentation not approaching the margin of the disc; always a thick band of spongiform material between the posterior margin of the disc and the anteriormost point of the indentation in the spongiform collar. Hairs on dorsum of head all of the same construction and approximate size. Counting from the mandibular base the first and third teeth about equal in length . . . . . 54

54
return to couplet #53
 * Hairs on cephalic dorsum strongly arched forward so that their apices are in contact or almost in contact with the surface some distance in front of their bases; without hairs which are erect and sharply angled at about their midlengths. (Cameroun) . . . . . Strumigenys mekaha


 * Hairs on cephalic dorsum, especially on posterior half, with the basal half to two-thirds of each hair erect, the apical portion sharply angled forward. (Cameroun, Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys kerasma

55
return to couplet #52
 * Cephalic dorsum behind clypeus only with fine soft flexuous simple hairs that are looped, arched or wavy; without specialized strong stiff hairs that are similar to those on the clypeal dorsum . . . . . 56


 * Cephalic dorsum behind clypeus usually with some fine hairs but also with long stout very conspicuous stiff hairs that are erect and curved anteriorly and are similar to those on the clypeal dorsum . . . . . 58

56
return to couplet #55
 * With the head viewed from above and behind (oblique posterodorsal view) the posterior clypeus bounded by a transverse row of 4 or 6 straight erect stout hairs; this row also conspicuous in profile . . . . . 57


 * With the head viewed from above and behind (oblique posterodorsal view) the posterior clypeus not bounded by a transverse row of 4 or 6 straight erect stout hairs. (Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroun, Zaire, Angola) . . . . . Strumigenys malaplax

57
return to couplet #56
 * With the head in oblique posterodorsal view the posterior clypeus bounded by a transverse row of 6 relatively short erect stout hairs; in profile these hairs shorter than dorsal length of clypeus and less than depth of head at level of eye. (Zaire, Burundi) . . . . . Strumigenys bellatrix


 * With the head in oblique posterodorsal view the posterior clypeus bounded by a transverse row of 4 extremely long erect stout hairs; in profile these hairs longer than dorsal length of clypeus and about equal to depth of head at level of eye. (Zaire) . . . . . Strumigenys piliversa

58
return to couplet #55
 * With the head in profile the longest hairs arising from the clypeal dorsum (the posteriormost transverse row) distinctly shorter than the longest hairs on the cephalic dorsum, which arise just behind the level of the eyes. (Cameroun, Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys placora


 * With the head in profile the longest hairs arising from the clypeal dorsum about the same length as those situated on the cephalic dorsum just behind the level of the eyes, or only fractionally different . . . . . 59

59
return to couplet #58
 * Posterior spongiform collar of petiole enormously developed, in dorsal view the thickness of the collar from front to back greater than the exposed length of the petiole node; in appearance the collar obviously densely spongiform rather than lamellar . . . . . Strumigenys arahana


 * Posterior spongiform collar of petiole narrow and lamellar, in dorsal view the thickness of the collar from front to back conspicuously less than the exposed length of the petiole node . . . . . 60

60
return to couplet #59
 * With the head in posterior view the long hairs arising from the dorsum and sides distinctly swollen apically, increasing markedly in width toward their apices. (Zaire, Angola) . . . . . Strumigenys fenkara


 * With the head in posterior view the long hairs arising from the dorsum and sides of uniform width throughout their length, not increasing in width from base to apex . . . . . 61

61
return to couplet #60
 * Posterior spongiform collar of postpetiole with a shallow median indentation that does not reach the posterior margin of the postpetiole disc. Larger species, HW 0.50, AL 0.72-0.74. (Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys synkara


 * Posterior spongiform collar of postpetiole with a deep median indentation that reaches the posterior margin of the postpetiole disc. Smaller species, HW < 0.40, AL 0.58-0. 60. (Cameroun) . . . . . Strumigenys tolomyla

62
return to couplet #48
 * With head in ventral view, or in dorsal view with mandibles open, the labrum terminating distally in a pair of wide lobes that are dorsoventrally flattened, are spatula-like to plate-like in shape, are divergent anteriorly and broadly rounded to truncated at their apices. Anterior clypeal margin usually concave to transverse, only extremely rarely broadly and very shallowly convex . Mandible with fewer than 12 teeth and denticles in total . . . . . 63


 * With head in ventral view, or in dorsal view with mandibles open, the labrum terminating distally in a pair of narrow lobes that are not dorsoventrally flattened, are linear, digitate or triangular in shape and do not diverge anteriorly (often slightly convergent apically), the lobes very narrowly rounded to acute at their apices. Anterior clypeal margin always conspicuously convex. Mandible with 12 or more teeth and denticles in total . . . . . 76

63
return to couplet #62
 * With the head in full-face view the upper scrobe margin and the lateral margin of the occipital lobe without freely projecting hairs; any hairs present are short to minute, strongly anteriorly curved and decumbent to closely appressed . . . . . 64


 * With the head in full-face view the upper scrobe margin, or the lateral margin of the occipital lobe, or both, with one to many freely projecting hairs; anteriorly curved minute appressed hairs may also be present on part or all of the margin . . . . . 69

64
return to couplet #63
 * Base of first gastral sternite in profile with a pad of dense spongiform tissue. Cephalic dorsum behind clypeus with flattened spatulate to scale-like hairs present on part or all of the surface. Lateral margin of preocular carina visible in full-face view . . . . . 65


 * Base of first gastral sternite in profile without a pad of dense spongiform tissue. Cephalic dorsum behind clypeus with fine simple pilosity or minute appressed pubescence only; without spatulate or scale-like hairs. Lateral margin of preocular carina not visible in full-face view . . . . . 67

65
return to couplet #64
 * Dorsal surfaces of promesonotum, petiole, postpetiole and first gastral tergite with erect fine simple hairs present. Pronotal humerus with a projecting simple hair. (Ivory Coast, Ghana) . . . . . Strumigenys tukulta


 * Dorsal surfaces of promesonotum, petiole, postpetiole and first gastral tergite without erect hairs of any form. Pronotal humerus without a projecting hair . . . . . 66

66
return to couplet #65
 * With head in full-face view lateral margins of clypeus forming an elevated and thickened longitudinal ridge on each side; dorsum of clypeus both longitudinally and transversely shallowly concave. Disc of postpetiole with scattered minute appressed hairs that are very narrowly spatulate. CI 75-80. (Cameroun, Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys ravidura


 * With head in full-face view lateral margins of clypeus not elevated, not forming a thickened longitudinal ridge on each side; dorsum of clypeus not longitudinally and transversely concave. Disc of postpetiole with numerous scale-like appressed hairs that are almost as broad as long. CI 70. (Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys belial

67
return to couplet #64
 * Pronotum dorsolaterally sharply marginate throughout its length. Postpetiolar disc finely longitudinally costulate. With head in full-face view lateral margins of clypeus convergent in front of frontal lobes; width of head across clypeus less than width across frontal lobes. (Ghana, Cameroun, Gabon , Angola) . . . . . Strumigenys tetragnatha


 * Pronotum dorsolaterally not sharply marginate throughout its length. Postpetiolar disc smooth or at most with lateral shagreening. With head in full-face view lateral margins of clypeus divergent in front of frontal lobes; width of head across clypeus greater than width across frontal lobes . . . . . 68

68
return to couplet #67
 * With the head in profile the edge of the clypeus enormously thickened, much thicker than the maximum width of the scape. Anterior clypeal margin with a semicircular median impression flanked by a lobe on each side. (Rwanda) . . . . . Strumigenys dagon


 * With the head in profile the edge of the clypeus narrow, narrower than the maximum width of the scape. Anterior clypeal margin broadly evenly shallowly concave from corner to corner. (Rwanda) . . . . . Strumigenys sahura

69
return to couplet #63
 * Pronotal dorsum transversely flat to shallowly concave, sharply marginate dorsolaterally and with a weak median longitudinal carina. Disc of postpetiole longitudinally costulate . . . . . 70


 * Pronotal dorsum transversely convex, not marginate dorsolaterally and without a median longitudinal carina. Disc of postpetiole smooth and shining . . . . . 71

70
return to couplet #69
 * With head in full-face view the dorsolateral margin with 3 or more laterally projecting fine flagellate hairs that are very long, longer than the scape. Cephalic dorsum glossy, with widely spaced minute punctures and dense long ground-pilosity. Promesonotum with weak longitudinal costulae on a more or less glossy surface. (Cameroun, Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys africana


 * With head in full-face view the dorsolateral margin with 2 or more laterally projecting simple hairs that are short, much shorter than the scape. Cephalic dorsum matt, densely reticulate-granulate and with short sparse ground-pilosity. Promesonotum with weak longitudinal costulae on a finely reticulate-punctulate surface. (Gabon) . . . . . Strumigenys fisheri

71
return to couplet #69
 * Cephalic dorsum and sides of head capsule around the scrobe with scattered conspicuous broad foveolate punctures that give the surface a coarsely cratered appearance. Mandible with 11 teeth and denticles in total . . . . . 72


 * Cephalic dorsum and sides of head capsule around the scrobe smooth to reticulate-punctate, lacking crater-like foveolate punctures. Mandible with 7-10 teeth and denticles in total . . . . . 73

72
return to couplet #71
 * Clypeal dorsum with numerous conspicuously elevated hairs, without appressed small hairs. Lateral and ventral appendages of postpetiole conspicuously spongiform. Anterior margin of postpetiole disc in dorsal view evenly shallowly concave. (Cameroun) . . . . . Strumigenys trymala


 * Clypeal dorsum with appressed small simple or spatulate hairs, without elevated hairs. Lateral and ventral appendages of postpetiole delicate and blister-like, translucent. Anterior margin of postpetiole disc in dorsal view broadly and deeply concave. (Uganda, Kenya, Thnzania) . . . . . Strumigenys thuvida

73
return to couplet #71
 * With postpetiole in dorsal view the sides of the disc completely enclosed by dense spongiform tissue. Limbus broad and continuous, indented anteromedially but not interrupted. Mesonotum mostly or wholly smooth . . . . . 74


 * With postpetiole in dorsal view the spongiform tissue restricted to the posterolateral angles of the disc and fading out anteriorly. Limbus narrow at sides and interrupted medially. Mesonotum densely punctate. (Malawi) . . . . . Strumigenys loveridgei

74
return to couplet #73
 * Standing hairs on dorsum and dorsolateral margins of head, hairs at pronotal humeri, and standing hairs on mesonotal dorsum, all long fine and flagellate. Clypeus and mandibles dorsally with small slender spatulate hairs, not clothed with broad flat scale-like appressed hairs; principal basal teeth of mandibles not obscured by such hairs in full-face view. Basal tooth on mandible only about one-half the length of the third tooth from the base . . . . . 75


 * Standing hairs on dorsum and dorsolateral margins of head, hairs at pronotal humeri, and standing hairs on mesonotal dorsum, all short and stiff. Clypeus and mandibles dorsally densely clothed with broad flat scale-like appressed hairs; principal basal teeth of mandibles partially concealed by such hairs in full-face view. Basal tooth on mandible subequal in length to the third tooth from the base. (Equatorial Guinea) . . . . . Strumigenys nimravida

75
return to couplet #74
 * Mandible with 6 enlarged teeth, without a medially projecting broad spatulate hair between the basal most tooth and the basal lamella. Lateral margins of clypeus approximately parallel in full-face view. Spatulate appressed hairs on clypeus at least as long as the basal most mandibular tooth . Arched ground-pilosity at highest point of cephalic dorsum simple. (Ghana, Cameroun , Gabon, Zaire) . . . . . Strumigenys sistrura


 * Mandible with 5 enlarged teeth, with a medially projecting broad spatulate hair between the basal most tooth and the basal lamella. Lateral margins of clypeus divergent anteriorly in full-face view. Spatulate appressed hairs on clypeus minute, distinctly shorter than the basal most mandibular tooth . Arched ground-pilosity at highest point of cephalic dorsum narrowly spatulate. (Ivory Coast, Ghana) . . . . . Strumigenys cryptura

76
return to couplet #62
 * With head in full-face view the outer margins of the fully closed mandibles intersect the anterior clypeal margin mesad of the anterolateral clypeal angles, so that there is a section of the broadly convex anterior clypeal margin projecting laterally beyond the outline of the mandibles. Clypeal dorsum without hairs. (Zimbabwe, South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys rusta


 * With head in full-face view the outer margins of the fully closed mandibles intersect the anterior clypeal margin at the anterolateral clypeal angles, so that there is no section of the narrowly convex anterior clypeal margin projecting laterally beyond the outline of the mandibles . Clypeal dorsum with hairs present . . . . . 77

77
return to couplet #76
 * Leading edge of scape with a row of anteriorly projecting straight simple hairs. Eye minute and difficult to see, composed of only one or two small ommatidia. Tibiae and basi tarsi of middle and hind legs each with one or two long projecting flagellate hairs. (South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys mira


 * Leading edge of scape lacking anteriorly projecting straight hairs. Eye small to moderate, usually distinct and always with 4 or more ommatidia. Tibiae and basitarsi of middle and hind legs without flagellate hairs . . . . . 78

78
return to couplet #77
 * Hairs on clypeal margins narrowly spatulate and appressed, the hairs small, straight and directed anteromedially or anteriorly from their insertions . . . . . 79


 * Hairs on clypeal margins filiform to clavate and not appressed, some or all the hairs elongate and recurved, curving posteriorly or posteromedially from their insertions . . . . . 80

79
return to couplet #78
 * With head in full-face view the dorsolateral margin close to the occipital angle without projecting fine elongate hairs. Standing hairs on first gastral tergite restricted to a transverse row near the base and a row near the apex. (South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys agnosta


 * With head in full-face view the dorsolateral margin close to the occipital angle with two projecting fine elongate hairs. Standing hairs present on first gastral tergite between the basal and apical rows. (South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys dictynna

80
return to couplet #78
 * With head in full-face view laterally projecting flagellate hairs absent or restricted to the side very close to the occipital angle . . . . . 81


 * With head in full-face view laterally projecting flagellate hairs conspicuous, with 2 or more on each side and the anteriormost well in front of the level of the apex of the scrobe . . . . . 82

81
return to couplet #80
 * Clypeal margin close to its anteriormost point with a single pair of laterally projecting posteriorly curved stout hairs; hairs similar to these not present on clypeal dorsum but an arched row of four much shorter hairs present close to the posterior clypeal margin. Disc of clypeus evenly finely reticulate-punctate, the individual punctures sharply and very clearly defined. (South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys ogyga


 * Clypeal margin close to its anteriormost point with 2-3 pairs of short spoon-shaped recurved hairs; hairs similar to these numerous on clypeal dorsum, not restricted to a single transverse row close to the posterior margin. Clypeus finely punctate-granulate, the individual punctures not sharply defined. (South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys anarta

82
return to couplet #80
 * Elongate recurved hairs that project from anterior clypeal margin claviform, distinctly clavate to spoon-shaped apically. Posteromedially curved hairs on clypeal dorsum clavate to spoon-shaped. (South Africa, Lesotho) . . . . . Strumigenys oxysma


 * Elongate recurved hairs that project from anterior clypeal margin filiform or slightly flattened apically, not clavate nor spoon-shaped. Posteromedially curved hairs on clypeal dorsum filiform to very narrowly spatulate apically. (South Africa) . . . . . Strumigenys sardonica