Ground-dwelling ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in a mining area of Quipama, Boyacá, Colombia, with new species records

Abstract

Mining is a process with great environmental impact that implies important consequences for biodiversity, including its loss. Here, we present a list of 13 species of ants that were collected in a high-impact mining exploitation area of Quipama, Boyacá, Colombia. Notably, the records of Pheidole subarmata Mayr, 1884 and Camponotus ager (Smith, 1858) are new for the department. Although the presence of these species indicates serious disturbance by human activity in the area, there is still a considerable diversity of ants. This study highlights the need for actions to ensure the management and rehabilitation of areas affected by mining.

Keywords

• Biomonitoring
• Boyacá
• Formicidae
• mining exploitation
• new distribution