Paratrechina

Species of Paratrechina nest in open soil or under rocks or other objects, or in rotten wood on the ground. They can be locally abundant with nests easily found. Some species are known to forage primarily at night. They forage on the ground as well as on vegetation, feeding on a range of invertebrates as well as plant fluids such as nector and honeydew collected from Hemiptera. One species (P. longicornis) is a widespread tramp in many tropical countries, being introduced through human activity; it can sometimes be a household pest.

Identification
The upper surface of the mesosoma with pairs of large, distinct hairs on the pronotum and mesonotum (Figs 142a, 422). The overall body size is small to medium (between 1.2 and 2.5mm). They are recognisable by the large, stout pairs of erect hairs on the upper surface of the mesosoma. No other Australian ants have these distinctive hairs.

Distribution and Habitats
Australian distribution

Regional Species Lists

 * Australia

Keys to Species

 * Australia