Epopostruma terrula

The single collection of this species was made under rock in a flat scrubby goldfields area of dry sclerophyll.

Identification
This rare species can be separated from others in the genus by the lack lateral extensions of the postpetiole, the lateral margin of the head between the eye and the posterior corner forming a smooth curve, the anterior face of the postpetiole being similar in length to the dorsal face, the posterolateral corners of the postpetiole forming thin, angular flanges and the first gastral tergite being distinctly sculptured and with a matte appearance.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Australasian Region: Australia.

Nomenclature

 *  terrula. Epopostruma terrula Shattuck, in Bolton, 2000: 66, figs. 67, 79, 91 (w.) AUSTRALIA.

Description
In full face view the lateral margin of the head between the eye and the posterior corner forming a smooth curve. Pronotal spines present, distinct. Posterior section of metanotum in approximately the same plane as the dorsal face of propodeum, the junction of these plates a shallow trough or depression. Posterior face of propodeum between bases of spines and propodeal lobes with flanges. Petiolar spines present, short but distinct. Anterior face of postpetiole similar in length to the dorsal face, the separation between the faces a broad, rounded curve; sides of postpetiole approximately vertical and rounding gradually from dorsal to posterior surfaces, in dorsal view the posterolateral corners forming a thin, angular flange; posterolateral margin of postpetiole (immediately anterior of gaster) weakly concave. Dorsum of petiole, postpetiole and gaster with short, straight hairs. First gastral tergite distinctly sculptured and with a matte appearance; gaster immediately behind attachment with gaster with elongate rugae. Body colour yellow-red, dorsal surface of head sometimes slightly darker, gaster uniformly coloured.

Measurements

Holotype worker. TL 3.7mm, HL 0.83mm, HW 0.71mm, CI 86, MandL 0.41mm, MandI 49, SL 0.52mm, SI 73, PronW 0.51mm, ML 0.99mm.

References based on Global Ant Biodiversity Informatics

 * Bolton, B. 2000. The Ant Tribe Dacetini. Memoirs of the American Entomological Institute 65