Prolasius

Prolasius workers nest in soil under rocks and logs, or occasionally arboreally. They are most commonly found foraging on the ground or less commonly on tree trunks or low vegetation. Although they have been little studied, some species are known to feed on seeds.



Worker of P. nitidissimus from Tasmania.

Identification
The propodeal spiracle is located very close to the rear face of the propodeum when viewed from the side. The scapes are long and surpass the rear margin of the head by more than 3 times their maximum diameter.

Prolasius is a large, fairly diverse group of ants. They can be separated from other Australian formicines by the relatively compact propodeum which has a short upper face and a long rear face and the placement of the propodeal spiracle, which is located very close to the rear margin when viewed from the side. They also have elongate scapes which often exceed the rear margin of the head by one-third their length.

Distribution and Habitats
Australian distribution

Regional Species Lists

 * Australia

Keys to Species

 * Australia