Pheidole plato

Known only from the type series.

Identification
See the description in the nomenclature section.

Distribution
Only known from the type locality.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Neotropical Region: Ecuador.

Nomenclature

 *  plato. Pheidole plato Wilson, 2003: 147, figs. (s.w.) ECUADOR.

Description
Similar to Pheidole biconstricta and Pheidole socrates.

Major and minor: first gastral tergite smooth and shiny; in side and dorsal-oblique view, profile of posterior half of pronotal dorsum raised as a low subangular prominence; color distinctive (see below); pilosity very sparse.

Major: only a small trace of rugoreticulum present between eye and antennal fossa and located close to the fossa.

Minor: relatively broad occipital border in full-face view.

MEASUREMENTS (mm) Holotype major: HW 1.44, HL 1.44, SL 0.84, EL 0.20, PW 0.66. Paratype minor: HW 0.54, HL 0.64, SL 0.80, EL 0.14, PW 0.40.

COLOR Major: body and mandibles light yellowish brown, other appendages dark yellow.

Minor: body medium brown, appendages light brown.



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

Type Locality Information
ECUADOR: 22 km southwest of Puyo, Pastaza Prov. col. Stewart B. and Jarmila Kukalová-Peck.

Etymology
For the philosopher, chosen to set it off from the related species socrates.