Pogonomyrmex wheeleri (Queen)

Scientific name: Pogonomyrmex wheeleri

Taxonomic classification:

• • • Kingdom: Animalia
    • Phylum: Arthropoda
    • Class: Insecta
    • Order: Hymenoptera
    • Family: Formicidae
    • Subfamily: Myrmicinae
    • Genus: Pogonomyrmex
    • Species: P. wheeleri

Geographic distribution: Pogonomyrmex wheeleri is found in North America, specifically in desert and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

Physical characteristics: Workers of Pogonomyrmex wheeleri are of medium size, with lengths ranging from 5 to 10 mm. They have a robust body, with coloration that can vary from brown to black. They typically have strong and prominent mandibles.

Behavior: Pogonomyrmex wheeleri is known for its aggressive and defensive behavior. They are harvester ants that collect seeds and other plant materials to store in their nests. These ants build large mounds around the entrances of their nests, which helps regulate temperature inside.

Conservation status: There is no specific information available regarding the conservation status of Pogonomyrmex wheeleri.

Additional notes: Pogonomyrmex wheeleri is an important species in desert ecosystems, as its seed-collecting behavior can influence vegetation and other aspects of desert ecology. Its defensive behavior and characteristic mound-building make it notable in the study of species interactions in these environments.