Two new species of Leptanilloides Mann, 1823 (Formicidae: Dorylinae) from the Andes of southern Ecuador

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:2015
Authors:T. Delsinne, Sonet, G., Donoso, D.
Journal:European Journal of Taxonomy
Volume:143
Issue:143
Pagination:1 - 35
Date Published:2015
ISSN:2118-9773
Keywords:Army ant syndrome, DNA barcoding, male description, metatibial gland, subterranean ants
Abstract:

Two new species of Leptanilloides are described: L. copalinga Delsinne & Donoso sp. nov., and L. prometea Delsinne & Donoso sp. nov., based on workers collected in the leaf litter and soil of the Andes of southern Ecuador. Both species belong to the L. biconstricta species-group (formally diagnosed here). The metatibial gland, considered a synapomorphy for Dorylinae, is observed in L. prometea sp. nov. but seems absent in L. copalinga sp. nov. We provide a COI DNA barcode for both species and a revised key for the worker caste of all known species in the genus. We also describe a single male identified as a potential new Leptanilloides species on the basis of morphology. Furthermore, its mitochondrial COI gene sequence does not match any previously barcoded species. However, we refrain from giving it a specific name because of our lack of knowledge about the worker caste. So far, half of the 14 Leptanilloides species have been discovered above 1500 m in the mountain forests or páramos of the Ecuadorian Andes, confirming, if needed, the biological significance of these threatened habitats.

URL:http://www.europeanjournaloftaxonomy.eu/index.php/ejt/article/view/265
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