Genus Forelius Emery

These are hyperactive, thermophilic, ground­nesting ants, with two species ( F. mccooki and F. pruinosus) in California. Colonies are polygynous, and the workers have conspicuous foraging trails. Some nest series consist of individuals phenotypically intermediate between F. mccooki and F. pruinosus, indicating the possibility of introgression between the two forms. Taxonomic difficulties with the group have been discussed previously (under “Taxonomic Changes”).

Species identification: key in Wheeler and Wheeler (1986g). Additional references: Cuezzo (2000), Holway et al. (2002), Scheffrahn et al. (1984), Shattuck (1992c), Snelling and George (1979), Yensen et al. (1980).