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Ants Of Afghanistan

Started By Kai , Apr 29 2017 6:19 PM

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8 replies to this topic

#1 Offline Kai - Posted April 29 2017 - 6:19 PM

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While I was serving in the Marine Infantry I went to Afghanistan a few times, I noticed in Helmand province very large, long legged bi-colored ants (red and black) with amazing eye sight 3 feet or more. They would run toward us as we passed by thier nests on patrol, they always had thier abdomens pointed up at all times.
Lived in the soil, one entrance to the nest that was visible, and roughly 2 feet of escavated soil around nest entrance.

Larger than any Camponotus species I have ever seen.

Does anyone have any idea what species these were?

Edited by Kai, April 29 2017 - 6:26 PM.

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#2 Offline Alabama Anter - Posted April 29 2017 - 6:23 PM

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Well first off, Thank You for your service and devotion to the US of A!

Secondly, I think this would be Camponotus sp.

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YJK

#3 Offline Kai - Posted April 29 2017 - 6:25 PM

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Well Thank you,

The head of the ant seemed more related to honey pot ants than Camponotus, and its body was raised up high off the ground while it ran around during the day.

#4 Offline Batspiderfish - Posted April 29 2017 - 6:31 PM

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That sounds like Cataglyphis.

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If you've enjoyed using my expertise and identifications, please do not create undue ecological risk by releasing your ants. The environment which we keep our pet insects is alien and oftentimes unsanitary, so ensure that wild populations stay safe by giving your ants the best care you can manage for the rest of their lives, as we must do with any other pet.

Exotic ants are for those who think that vibrant diversity is something you need to pay money to see. It is illegal to transport live ants across state lines.

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Black lives still matter.

#5 Offline Kai - Posted April 29 2017 - 6:36 PM

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That sounds like Cataglyphis.

I'll have to look at the pictures real quick on antweb.

#6 Offline Kai - Posted April 29 2017 - 6:38 PM

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You are correct, haha well that didn't take long, I'm impressed.

#7 Offline Batspiderfish - Posted April 29 2017 - 6:59 PM

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You are correct, haha well that didn't take long, I'm impressed.

It's not often we can make an ID based off a simple description, but Cataglyphis are pretty remarkable. These ants somehow keep track of the length of their legs and how many steps they take to and from the nest, to help them navigate. Their vision is also phenomenal.

Edited by Batspiderfish, April 29 2017 - 7:00 PM.

Exotic ants are for those who think that vibrant diversity is something you need to pay money to see. It is illegal to transport live ants across state lines.

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Black lives still matter.

#8 Offline Tyrael - Posted April 29 2017 - 7:08 PM

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BBC video about Cataglyphis: https://www.youtube....h?v=mCaVvHeI8jU

#9 Offline ctantkeeper - Posted April 30 2017 - 8:49 AM

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I love this genus!!! there so cool looking . I love the appearance of their major caste. It seems to remind me ever so slightly of those found in Ection colonies.