Neivamyrmex texanus

This is a widespread ant, found in many different types of habitat. Although not commonly seen, N. texanus is a large (for Neivamyrmex) and conspicuous ant when it is actively foraging. Immigration columns are prominent and may often be seen from some distance away when crossing a suitable background. One observed near Tucson stretched well over 100 yards across the desert and could be readily seen as it meandered across the light colored sand. The blind snake, Leptotyphlops dulcius, was observed in the column. Occasionally, when an ant displayed an interest in the snake, it was quickly flicked off (pers. obs., GCS). Plsek et al. (1969) observed Helluomorphoides texanus (LeConte) in raiding columns of N. texanus and reported their observations on behavior of this species in the laboratory. (Snelling and Snelling 2007)

Identification
Small workers may be difficult to distinguish from those of Neivamyrmex nigrescens, but larger workers are fairly easy to distinguish with a little practice. Males may be readily recognized by the distinctive shape of the paramere. (Snelling and Snelling 2007)

Distribution
USA: AZ east to FL, north to CO, VA; MEXICO: Chihuahua, Hidalgo, Jalisco, San Luis Potosi.

Distribution based on Regional Taxon Lists
Nearctic Region: United States. Neotropical Region: Honduras, Mexico.



Nomenclature

 *  texanus. Neivamyrmex texanus Watkins, 1972: 353, figs. 2-4, 11, 14, 17-19, 33, 34, 49, 61 (w.q.m.) U.S.A. Wheeler, G.C. & Wheeler, J. 1984: 273 (l.); Taber & Cokendolpher, 1988: 95 (k.). See also: Ward, 1999a: 88; Snelling, G.C. & Snelling, R.R., 2007: 491.