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Student 10-Minute Paper

Systematics, Evolution, and Biodiversity

Student Competition

Student

Undergrad Competition SysEB: Biodiversity and Morphology

Reclassifying Nylanderia ants based on morphological characteristics

Monday, November 6, 2023
8:24 AM – 8:36 AM ET
Location: Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, Chesapeake J-K
In-Person Student Competition
The ant genus Nylanderia is a taxonomically understudied group, partially due to extensive morphological similarity between its species. Nylanderia is quite important in our increasingly globalized economy, however, containing several economically important “globetrotting” species. Research indicates that invasive qualities have evolved independently several times within the genus, making proper identification and classification of special importance. In this study, we surveyed and analyzed the morphological characteristics of 174 specimens collected in Central America via Winkler extraction of leaf litter. Each specimen was photographed and measured independently by 12-16 students using ImageJ software. Relevant measurements, including cephalic indices, relative eye length, and scape length were taken, aggregated, and analyzed to determine significant morphological characteristics and potential species delimitations. We have found evidence that three of the specimens belong to a previously undescribed morphospecies endemic to Oaxaca, Mexico. The next steps in our research will include genetic sequencing to get additional data to confirm this species delineation, reorganize the phylogenetic tree, and make an updated species list. This reorganization will help us identify potential invasive species, native species in need of conservation, and estimate current population distributions, all in the pursuit of protecting global biodiversity.