Nebothriomyrmex majeri

The only species in the genus, the types (workers only) were collected in a pitfall trap. Although it is not uncommon in the Darling Range, Nebothriomyrmex majeri is particularly abundant in coastal peppermint (Agonis flexuosa) scrubland around Bremer Bay. Here, many clusters of ant colonies can be found in white sand under rotted wood and around tree and shrub roots. Given their close association with roots in these circumstances, they may be tending root aphids or other Hemiptera. (Heterick 2009)

Identification
Worker. Palpal index 6:4. Eyes small (with about 20 facets), situated near antennal sockets; simple ocelli absent. Antennae 12-segmented. Mandibules with 4 or 5 small teeth. Median hypostoma developed, without emargination. Metanotal depression deep. Main surface of propodeum situated distinctly below mesonotum. (Dubovikoff, 2004)

Distribution
Southwestern Australia.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Australasian Region: Australia.

Castes
Only known from workers.

Nomenclature

 *  majeri. Nebothriomyrmex majeri Dubovikoff, 2004a: 523 (w.) AUSTRALIA.

Worker
Body yellow, abdomen slightly darker. Erect hairs present on the clypeus (2 chaetae directed forwards in middle part and 2, directed downwards at anterior margin) and abdomen (tergites II and III with sparse chaetae, tergite IV with about 7 chaetae). Recumbent pubescence of body delicate, consisting of dense fine short hairs. Eyes situated in lower part of head. Scape short, far not reaching occipital margin of head. Clypeus slightly depressed in middle. Main surface of propodeum convex; sloping surface flat, not concave. Sacle fine, smoothly rounded upwards.

Length of body: 1.5-1.9 mm. CI = 85-89 (89), SI = 65-68 (65).

Etymology
The species is named for Prof. J. Majer, curator of the collection of ants in CUTP.

References based on Global Ant Biodiversity Informatics

 * Heterick B. E. 2009. A guide to the ants of south-western Australia. Records of the Western Australian Museum Supplement 76: 1-206.