Paraponera

This monotypic genus, exclusively neotropical, is well known and easily recognized from its giant size (> 2 cm long).

Identification
Its large size, conspicuous antennal scrobes, and the uniquely shaped petiole make this monotypic genus immediately recognizable.

Distribution
Throughout the wet neotropics.

Biology
For details see Paraponera clavata, the only known species within this genus.

Nomenclature

 *  PARAPONERA [Paraponerinae]
 * Paraponera Smith, F. 1858b: 100. Type-species: Formica clavata, by monotypy.

Head sub quadrate, with the angles rounded, slightly narrowed posteriorly ; the eyes circular and very prominent. situated a littlebefore the middle, at the sides of the head; the antennre inserted forward on the face in deep cavities close to the base of the clypens; mandibles large, triangular, dentate on their inner edge; the labial palpi 3-jointed, the maxillary palpi 5-jointed; the node of the abdomen incrassate; the abdomen with a deep strangulation between the first and second segments.

This insect, which is now separated from the genus Ponera, will not range in any of the subdivisions here described; in the prominence of the eyes it agrees with the genus Ectatomma, but the labial and maxillary palpi are composed of a different number of joints.

Brown (1958) - Smith correctly noted the palpal segmentation; all castes of both sexes have a 5,3 formula. The female is winged, and both it and the worker have the hypopygium bordered on each side by an upwardly-directed comb of slender spinules. The male subgenital plate is in the form of a slender, up curved biramous fork resembling that seen in the males of cerapachyines. The hind wings of both sexes have a well-developed anal lobe. Weber (1946) has discussed certain aspects of the morphology and habits, and has called attention to the resemblances Paraponera bears to Ectatomma. Larval morphology is covered by G.C. and J. Wheeler (1952a :117, pI. 2, figs. 1-9).