Pheidole scimitara

Nothing is known about the biology of scimitara.

Identification
See the description in the nomenclature section.

Distribution
Only known from the type locality.

This taxon was described from Peru.

Description
A very distinctive member of the diligens group, somewhat similar to Pheidole calimana, Pheidole cataractae, Pheidole demeter, Pheidole machetula, Pheidole sicaria and Pheidole tenuis, distinguished in both major and minor by the very long propodeal spines and extremely large eyes. Also, the antennal scape of the major exceeds the occipital corner by more than its own maximum width, and the minor has a narrowed occiput with nuchal collar.

MEASUREMENTS (mm) Holotype major: HW 1.00, HL 1.10, SL 1.00, EL 0.24, PW 0.54. Paratype minor: HW 0.54, HL 0.74, SL 0.98, EL 0.22, PW 0.40.

COLOR Major: head and mandibles medium to dark reddish brown; rest of body and appendages light yellowish brown

Minor: head and gaster light yellowish brown; mesosoma, waist, and appendages yellow.



'''Figure. Upper: holotype, major. Lower: paratype, minor. Scale bars = 1 mm.'''

Type Locality Information
From Wilson (2003): PERU: Estácion Biologica de Cocha Cashu, Madre de Dios, 400 m, col. Diane W. Davidson.

Etymology
Pers scimitara, a curved sword, referring to the propodeal spines.