Taxonomy of Temnothorax simlensis stat. nov. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) with first description of sexual castes along with a mention of its plesiobiotic association with Himalayan species of genus Myrmica

Abstract

The subspecies Temnothorax rothneyi simlensis (Forel) is raised to species rank as Temnothorax simlensis stat. nov. All three castes are recorded, with the queen and male castes described for the first time. This revision is based on the comparative data from morphometry, descriptions, digital images and distribution. In addition, we provide first-hand information about the plesiobiotic association of this species with Himalayan species of genus Myrmica. A revised key to the worker caste of known Indian species of Temnothorax is also provided.

Keywords

• Temnothorax
• Myrmicinae
• Himalaya
• plesiobiotic association
• Myrmica