D3227: Taxonomic revision of genus Nylanderia in Mesoamerica through morphological characteristics

Nylanderia is one of the most abundant genera of ant that has over 123 extant described species, with at least 15 of them being known globe trotting species. The objective of this study was to conduct taxonomic revisions within the genus Nylanderia, focusing on both quantitative and qualitative morphological characteristics. A total of 54 individual specimens were extracted from the Mesoamerican region and subjected to four replications of 19 body measurements each, totaling 4,104 measurements. In addition, counts of macrosetae, teeth, and qualitative observations on color, head shape, amount of pubescence, hair patterns, and location samples were taken. Morphometric indices such as the cephalic index, relative eye length index, and the scape length index were all calculated to provide further evidence of variation. The means of the replications were analyzed to distinguish between species. The data revealed 13 distinct groups that could possibly be individual species, with noticeable anatomical differences within the groupings. Our group is focusing on one morphospecies we identified labeled 14b that is possibly endemic to Honduras and Belize. The 14b group was found in 4 different samples/localities and could possibly be a starting point for organization of more morphospecies distinctions. Further research using molecular and phylogenetic data is recommended to identify stronger species boundaries and begin to determine if our initial morphological hypothesis was accurate. The results of this study can help prepare for and track future possible invasions by Nylanderia species, as well as determine how to manage particular populations.