Epopostruma kangarooensis

Epopostruma kangarooensis was described from a single specimen collected on Kangaroo Island, South Australia. In WA, it is known from a single specimen from relictual woodland on Curtin University campus and a specimen collected many years ago in Dwellingup. These represent new range extensions for this species. Nothing is known of its biology.

Identification
This rare species is similar to Epopostruma angulata and Epopostruma infuscocephala. It can be separated from the former by the diverging petiolar spines, the shallowly concave posterior margin of the head (the angle between its sides approximately 70°) and the higher, more arched postpetiole, and from the later by the uniform head colour which is similar to the colour of the pronotum.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Australasian Region: Australia.

Nomenclature

 *  kangarooensis. Epopostruma kangarooensis Shattuck, in Bolton, 2000: 63 (w.) AUSTRALIA.

Description
Holotype worker. TL 3.7mm, HL 0.81mm, HW 0.74mm, CI 91, MandL 0.38mm, MandI 47, SL 0.44mm, SI 59, PronW 0.50mm, ML 0.93mm.

In full face view the lateral margin of the head between the eye and the posterior corner divided by an indistinct angle. 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 very weak depression. Posterior face of propodeum between bases of spines and propodeal lobes with thin flanges. Petiolar spines present. Anterior face of postpetiole shorter than the dorsal and separated from it by a broadly rounded convexity; sides approximately vertical and rounding gradually from dorsal to posterior surfaces, in dorsal view the posterolateral corners forming a thin, angular flange. Dorsum of petiole, postpetiole and gaster with short, straight erect hairs. First gastral tergite with indistinct sculpturing giving a matte appearance; area immediately behind attachment with gaster with short rugae. Body colour uniform yellow throughout, legs slightly darker.

References based on Global Ant Biodiversity Informatics

 * Heterick B. E. 2009. A guide to the ants of south-western Australia. Records of the Western Australian Museum Supplement 76: 1-206.