Pristomyrmex

These uncommon ants form small to large colonies in rotten wood on the ground or in soil under stones. A few species lack permanent nests and relocate their colonies frequently. Some species forage at night on rotten logs or low vegetation while others are restricted to foraging on the ground and in leaf litter. While most species have distinct queens a few lack queens, having reproductive workers instead. In these species workers are divided into two classes, those that remain in the nest, producing eggs and tending larvae and those that forage outside the nest. Individual workers shift roles through their life, staying inside the nest when young and then shifting to foraging as they age.



Worker of P. thoracicus from Queensland.



Worker of P. wilsoni from Queensland.

Identification
The antennae are 11 segmented (including the scape). Pairs of spines or strong denticles are present on the pronotum and on the propodeum near the angle as well as near the attachment of the petiole. These spines are unique to Pristomyrmex and will allow ready identification of these ants.

Distribution and Habitats
Australian distribution

Regional Species Lists

 * Australia

Keys to Species

 * Australia