A new species group of Strumigenys (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) from Ecuador, with a description of its mandible morphology

Resumen

<i>Strumigenys</i> is one of the most diverse ant genera in the world and arguably the most morphologically diverse, exhibiting an exceptional range of mandible shape and function. A new species, <i>Strumigenys ayersthey</i> <b>sp. nov.</b>, discovered in the Chocó region of Ecuador is described. With two morphological characters, this species is shown to be a morphologically unique outlier among <i>Strumigenys</i> globally, having predominately smooth and shining cuticle surface sculpturing and long trap-jaw mandibles. Using µCT scans, we produced 3D images of the worker ant and static images to examine and compare mandible articular morphologies with most morphologically similar members of the <i>mandibularis</i> species group. Cuticular, pilosity, and articular mandible morphological differences supports placing the new species in its own new species group.