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Dolichoderus australis
Scientific classification
Domain:	Eukaryota
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Arthropoda
Class:	Insecta
Order:	Hymenoptera
Family:	Formicidae
Subfamily:	Dolichoderinae
Genus:	Dolichoderus
Species:	D. australis
Binomial name
Dolichoderus australis André, 1896

Dolichoderus australis is a species of ant in the genus Dolichoderus. Described by André in 1896, the species is endemic to Australia, where it is commonly found in wet forested areas in the southern regions of the country. It is particularly known for its unique behaviour and role in ecology.

Description

Dolichoderus australis ants are small to medium-sized, measuring about 3-5 mm in length. They exhibit a distinctive shiny appearance with a dark brown to black coloration. The species has a characteristic node on the petiole and an elongated abdomen.

Habitat

Dolichoderus australis is commonly found in diverse habitats including woodlands, forests, and urban areas. They prefer nesting under rocks, in soil, or within decaying wood. The species is adaptable to a range of environmental conditions.

Behaviour and Ecology

Dolichoderus australis is known for its foraging behavior, often forming trails to food sources. The ants feed on a variety of substances including honeydew from aphids and other small insects. They play a significant role in the ecosystem by aiding in soil aeration and seed dispersal.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Dolichoderus australis involves the production of winged reproductive males and females, which engage in nuptial flights. Following mating, queens establish new colonies, often starting with a small number of workers.

Distribution

Dolichoderus australis is distributed widely across Australia. It is commonly observed in both natural and disturbed environments, indicating its high level of ecological adaptability.

References

1. ^ Shattuck, Steven O.; Marsden, Sharon (23 September 2013). "Australian species of the ant genus Dolichoderus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)" (PDF). Zootaxa. 3716 (2): 101. doi:10.11646/zootaxa.3716.2.1. PMID 26106769. Retrieved 18 January 2015.
2. Shattuck, S. (1999-10-30). Australian Ants: Their Biology and Identification. CSIRO PUBLISHING. ISBN 978-0-643-10237-8.
3. Heterick, Brian E. (2009). A guide to the ants of South-western Australia. Records of the Western Australian Museum. Supplement. Western Australian Museum. Perth, W.A: Western Australian Museum. ISBN 978-1-920843-43-4.
4. Andersen, Alan N. (2000). The ants of northern Australia: a guide to the monsoonal fauna. CSIRO (Australia). Collingwood, Vic., Australia: CSIRO. ISBN 978-0-643-06603-8.
5. Revista Colombiana de Entomología. Universidad del Valle.
6. Hölldobler, Bert; Wilson, Edward O. (1990). The ants. Cambridge, Mass: Belknap Press of Harvard University Press. ISBN 978-0-674-04075-5.

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