Centromyrmex


Centromyrmex is a pantropical, though mainly Afrotropical, genus of ants in the subfamily Ponerinae. This ponerine ant was recorded for the first time in French Guiana and the most northerly point of recording was in Costa Rica. The specimens reported here were collected in a region of Amazon Forest with flight interception traps.

Biology

They are predatory on termites, where a group hunting strategy may be employed, or may prey more generally on invertebrates in the upper soil layer of forests. Little is known about their biology, but workers lack eyes and are well adapted to a subterranean lifestyle by way of burrowing. They also are equipped with short, spiny, and powerful legs. Nest sites are usually found near or even inside of termite nests.

Species