Myrmecia tarsata explained

Myrmecia tarsata is a bull ant species native to Australia. The species belongs to the genus Myrmecia. Their distribution is large, mainly around New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.^[1]

Appearance

Myrmecia tarsata is quite a large bull ant at 22- long, with the males being slightly smaller. The head, thorax, and other distinct features are mainly black, mandibles are yellow, and legs look to be a reddish yellow colour.^{[2] [3]}

The species of Myrmecia tarsata are known to have the gamergates gene, which workers are able to reproduce. This gene allows their colonies to last a while without a queen.^[4]

Notes and References

1. Web site: Myrmecia tarsata Smith, 1858. Atlas of Living Australia . Govt of Australia . 11 March 2014 .
2. Book: Clark, John . The Formicidae of Australia (Volume 1) . Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Australia. Melbourne . 1951 . 28–32 .
3. Book: Smith, Fredrick . Catalogue of hymenopterous insects in the collection of the British Museum. Part VI. Formicidae . London, British Museum . 1858 . 145 .
4. Book: Dietemann, Vincent . Gamergates in the Australian ant subfamily Myrmeciinae . Springer-Verlag. 2004 .