Hi,
I found these under a rock and moss near the coast of west Ireland. I thought they were Myrmica Ruba first but now I am leaning towards Myrmica Ruginodis.
1. 53°28'30.6"N 10°01'27.9"W
2. March 17 2019
3. Coastal plain.
4. Length (from head to gaster): 5-6mm
5. Color, hue, pattern and texture: Red with dark parts
6. Distinguishing characteristics:
7. Distinguishing behavior:
8. Nest description: Under a rock and moss.
9. Nuptial flight time and date:
Not a great photographer so if any particular type of shot needed let me know :
https://photos.app.g...rSzmZoDShYn9dKA
Also I cannot see a regular sized queen like my other M. Ruba colony. But there could be lots of micro ones? Or I could have missed them somehow (either when collecting or in the formicarium). Pretty sure I got the whole colony though unless it was a satellite.
Thanks.