Project 1 - Ants: Taxonomic and Evolutionary Studies of a Hyperdiverse Fauna1.3: Systematics of the large and diverse ant genus Iridomyrmex
UPDATE – Australian Ants: The Genus Iridomyrmex
Ants are everywhere and one particularly prolific group of Australian ants is the genus Iridomyrmex, familiar to many Australians because it contains the meat ants.
Although Iridomyrmex occurs throughout Australia and is one of the largest, most ecologically important and common groups of Australian ants, its taxonomy is yet to be properly unravelled. Until this is done it will be very difficult to reliably identify many species.
The first species-level revision to produce an accurate description of all the Iridomyrmex species in this important Australian ant genus is based on both morphology (the physical structure) and molecular data. Through careful examination and interpretation of key morphological features, we have been able to gain greater understanding of the genus to define species boundaries and develop descriptions and keys for identification.
Our revision has raised issues in interpretation of previous species concepts, matching these to existing published names, and delimiting new species. For example, of the 81 species names currently available, 63 refer to 'good' taxa which are clearly distinguishable, while another 18 names represent common, widespread species which have been previously described under earlier names. In addition, the project has identified 37 new species which currently lack names, and will be formally described in the near future. This brings the total number of Australian Iridomyrmex species to around 100.
A preliminary key has been completed, while illustrations are currently being produced and a molecular phylogeny (genetic evolutionary tree) is being constructed.
Non-taxonomic specialists, such as ecologists, land managers and environmental specialists will benefit from a field guide to all of the Iridomyrmex species that is being developed. This guide will be electronically generated on demand using the most up to date information available. It will include the ability to search information for species local to a specific region, greatly simplifying the field guide and targeting it to local users.
[October 2008]
