Lepisiota layla

This species seems to be rare, the only known specimens being found in the Shivalik range of Western Himalaya, India. The specimens were collected by hand from the trunk of an Acacia tree.

Identification
Lepisiota layla is a medium-sized ant. It is superficially similar to Lepisiota lunaris and Lepisiota modesta, but its body is abundantly covered with long, erect white setae while L. lunaris and L. modesta have a body covered with usual short erect setae.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Oriental Region: India.

Nomenclature

 * . Lepisiota layla Wachkoo et al., 2021: 232, 243 (in key), figs. 13-15 (w.) INDIA (Himachal Pradesh).

Type Material

 * Holotype worker. India, Himachal Pradesh, Kotla, 31.8821° N, 75.9963° E, 500 m, 22.x.2010.
 * Paratype, 1 worker, same data as for holotype, Aijaz A. Wachkoo leg.