Systematics, distribution and ecology of big headed ant, Pheidole sharpi sharpi Forel (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) of Kerala
Presty John and Karmaly KA
The genus Pheidole Westwood is generally known as “Big headed ants†and entitled as hyperdiverse. It is one of the most species rich genera that shows highest dispersal in terms of ecological dominance. The current study was carried out in 14 districts of Kerala to study the distribution as well as ecology of the species Pheidole sharpi sharpi Forel. This species was found to be diurnal and widely distributed throughout Kerala. Specimens were collected by mainly food bait, hand picking and by all out search method. Species were redescribed and compared with closely similar species.
Presty John, Karmaly KA. Systematics, distribution and ecology of big headed ant, Pheidole sharpi sharpi Forel (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) of Kerala. J Entomol Zool Stud 2014;2(5):07-10.