Pseudomyrmex simulans Kempf 1958

Ward, Philip S., 1993, Systematic studies on Pseudomyrmex acacia-ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Pseudomyrmecinae), Journal of Hymenoptera Research 2, pp. 117-168 : 161

Pseudomyrmex simulans Kempf 1958

(Fig. 9)

Pseudomyrmex simulans Kempf 1958:459 . Holotype worker, Tumba Muerta Road , Panama (W. M. Wheeler) ( MCZC) [Examined] ,

Worker diagnosis. - With the traits of the P. gracilis group (see couplet 6 of key) and the following more specific features. Head longer than broad (Cl 0.86-0.90); anterior margin of median clypeal lobe straight to broadly convex, rounded laterally; pronotum with sharp dorsolateral margination; mesonotum more steeply inclined than basal face of propodeum; petiole relatively short and high ( PLI 0.61-0.66), with a distinct anterior peduncle (Figs. 9, 53), and with moderate dorsolateral margination; head and mesosoma finely punctulate-coriarious to coriarious-imbricate, subopaque; standing pilosity rather short, pale and inconspicuous, present on the mesosoma dorsum and (usually) outer surfaces of the tibiae, but sometimes lacking or worn off on the latter; fine appressed pubescence on most of body; dark brown-black in color, distal portions of appendages lighter; mandibles luteous.

Taxonomic comments. - This curious species bears a superficial resemblance to the obligate acacia-ants ( P. ferrugineus group), although its affinities to other P. gracilis group species are clear from eye size, pilosity, palp formula, mesosomal structure, and male genitalia. P. simulans can be recognized by the combination of elongate eyes (REL 0.52-0.55), short petiole (PLI 0.61-0.66), short inconspicuous pilosity, and black color.

Distribution and biology. - P. simulans is known only from a few collections, all from swollen-thom acacias ( A. collinsii ), in Panama (Canal Zone and the provinces of Veraguas, Los Santos and Panama). Nothing has been published about its nesting biology or behavior, but Janzen’s field notes indicate that the workers are more timid than those of the P. ferrugineus group. One might surmise that its habits are similar to those of P. nigropilosus , although the two species do not appear to be one another’s closest relatives ( Ward 1991).