The Queen ant of Messor Barbarus, ideal for getting started in the world of ants or myrmecology. Below we will show some basic information or technical sheet. 😉
Scientific Name:
- Species: Messor barbarus
Classification:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Family: Formicidae
- Genus: Messor
Morphology:
- Size: Variable, but workers typically range from 5 to 10 mm.
- Color: Brown to reddish.
- Head: Proportional to the body, with prominent antennae and mandibles.
- Thorax: Divided into three segments: pro, meso, and metathorax.
- Abdomen: Segmented, with a distinctive petiole.
Behavior:
- Colony type: Polygyne (multiple queens per colony).
- Diet: Mainly granivorous, feeding on seeds.
- Habits: Construct underground nests, characterized by mounds of soil on the surface.
Habitat:
- Prefers dry and warm areas.
- Can be found in fields, meadows, and areas with low vegetation.
Geographical Distribution:
- Southern Europe and North Africa.
Life Cycle:
- Complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult).
- The colony may include multiple queens.
Other Aspects:
- Interaction with other species: May interact with other ants and compete for resources.
- Ecological importance: Contributes to seed dispersal in its habitat.
