Diacamma

Species of Diacamma nest in loose debris on the ground's surface or less commonly in soil with a mound around the entrance or in tree cavities. Colony sizes are moderate, ranging from as few as 20 workers to about 500. Many nests are only used for a short period before the colony moves to a new site, although nests in soil can be used for many years and can develop into large mounds with a single large entrance. The usual queen caste is lacking and instead mated workers produce brood.



Worker of D. australe from Queensland.

Identification
The sides of the mesosoma above the front legs and just below the upper surface with conspicuous pocket-like pits on each side. The petiole is armed with a pair of spines on its upper surface. These large, black ants are immediately recognisable by the pit on the side of the mesosoma and the spines on the upper surface of the petiole.

Distribution and Habitats
Australian distribution

Regional Species Lists

 * Australia

Keys to Species

 * Australia