Anomalomyrma

There are three species in this tropical Oriental genus. Workers are known for only two species and are exceedingly rare.

Identification
Borowiec et al. (2011): Anomalomyrma is similar to Protanilla, with differentiating characters as follows: * The cuticular teeth have so far been observed only in the “Anomalomyrma” species from Japan.

** Judging from description and figures in Xu & Zhang (2002), P. furcomandibula has the promesonotal region slightly more bulky and convex, the lateral surface of mandible has a more visible groove, and exceptionally abdominal segment III (postpetiole) is more broadly attached to the segment IV (first gastral), which makes this species partially intermediate between Anomalomyrma and hitherto known Protanilla species.

Biology
Species in this genus are found in leaf litter in the Old World tropics.

Castes
Males of this genus are unknown.

Description
Mandibles unique, elongate and with blade strongly down curved in profile. Dorsal surface of each mandibular blade surmounted by a high convex vertical lamella of thick cuticle which has its origin close to the base and extends for about two-thirds the length of the blade. Inner surface of this lamella lined with three longitudinal rows of sharp cuticular teeth which are curved backwards and downwards. Beneath the lowest row of teeth is a longitudinal row of stout spiniform setae, directed ventrally. Outer surface of mandible below lamella with a broad longitudinal groove which runs forward from a smalliaterobasal pit. Apically the groove crosses the width of the mandible in front of the anterior termination of the lamella. Distal portion of each blade, beyond end of lamella, with a few denticles on the inner margin and with a truncated apex. Labrum with numerous sharp spiniform cuticular teeth which project forward and downward.

Additional References

 * Bolton, B. (1990) The higher classification of the ant subfamily Leptanillinae (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Systematic Entomology, 15, 267–282.


 * Borowiec, M.L., Schulz, A., Alpert, G.D., Banar, P. 2011. Discovery of the worker caste and description of two new species of Anomalomyrma with unique abdominal morphology. Zootaxa 2810: 1-14.