Forelius Emery

Ward, P. S., 2005, A synoptic review of the ants of California (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), Zootaxa 936, pp. 1-68 : 26

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).