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We provide a list for the ants collected in the leaf litter, soil and vegetation of the Parque Estadual São Camilo, an important conservation unit of Atlantic Forest in Paraná, Brazil, and one of the oldest in the state. We report 108 species, of which eight species and two genera represent new records for Southern Brazil. Seven species are reported for the first time in Paraná. Our work is the first ant list for the western limit of the state, and reveals a surprisingly high number of species considering the extension of the study area. We highlight the importance of integrating different sampling techniques to explore ant diversity, and to conduct baseline studies in protected areas to document biodiversity.

Prionopelta menininha sp. n. Figures 22, 35B Holotype worker: BRAZIL: Bahia: São Desidério, Gruta do Catão, Epígeo, 03.xi.2012, SDes146, DZUP549778 (1 specimen) [DZUP]. Paratype worker: same data as holotype, DZUP549779 (1 specimen) [DZUP]. Diagnosis. Lateral portion of frons deeply sculptured in full-face view. Eleven antennomeres. Subpetiolar process forming a relatively broad lobe; posteroventral angle of subpetiolar process obtuse. T1W greater than 0.40mm. Holotype measurements. HL 0.54; HW 0.50; SL 0.30; WL 0.68; PrL 0.28; PrW 0.36; PetNL 0.24; PetW 0.30; PetH 0.22; PetL 0.22; T1L 0.30; T1W 0.46; TL 1.74; CI 92; SI 60; PetI 125; PetHI 100; PetWI 136. Worker measurements (n=5). HL 0.54–0.56; HW 0.46–0.50; SL 0.28–0.32; WL 0.60 –0.70; PrL 0.24–0.28; PrW 0.30–0.36; PetNL 0.16–0.24; PetW 0.28–0.32; PetH 0.20–0.22; PetL 0.18–0.22; T1L 0.26–0.30; T1W 0.42– 0.46; TL 1.58–1.76; CI 85–92; SI 56–66; PetI 125–200; PetHI 100–122; PetWI 136–177. Worker description. Body light brown. Integument covered by deep and dense punctate sculpturing; space between the punctures of lateral portion of frons corresponding to one or almost two puncture diameters. Head slightly longer than broad; length of median tooth of mandible shorter than basal tooth; basal margins of mandibles convex. Clypeus evenly rounded. Eleven antennomeres; antennomeres 1–4 separated by shallow constrictions. Eye placed at the midlength of the head. Pronotum broader than long. Distance between the propodeal spiracle and the bulla of the metapleural gland corresponding to one spiracular diameter; distance between the propodeal spiracle and the propodeal dorsum corresponding to three spiracular diameters. Petiolar node slightly higher than long. Subpetiolar process forming a relatively broad lobe, with its anterior and posterior margins subparallel; posterior margin concave; posteroventral angle obtuse. Queen. Unknown. Male. Unknown. Etymology. The species is named in honor of Maria Escolástica da Conceição Nazaré, also known as “Mãe Menininha do Gantois”, a descendant of the Nigerian Yoruba royalty enslaved in Brazil, and one of the most prominent Brazilian iyalorixá (spiritual leader of the Afro-Brazilian religion Candomblé). The species name is a recognition to the Afro-Brazilian religions and community, and to the state of Bahia, from where P. menininha is mainly known. The specific epithet is a Portuguese noun in apposition, indeclinable in accordance to articles 31.2.1 and 31.2.3 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature. Distribution (Fig. 35B). The species is known from northeastern and southeastern Brazil, in the states of Bahia, Ceará, and Minas Gerais. Comments. This species can be confused with P. punctulata and P. tapatia because of the presence of eleven antennomeres. However, morphological features allow the separation of these three species. Prionopelta punctulata has the clypeus strongly projecting medially and the subpetiolar process with margins apically convergent, in contrast to P. menininha. It can be distinguished from P. tapatia mainly by the obtuse posteroventral angle of the subpetiolar process, acute in P. tapatia. Also, P. menininha has the petiolar node and the first gastral segment wider and longer than P. tapatia. Finally, so far, P. tapatia is a species endemic to Mexico. Natural history. Most specimens are known from pitfall and soil samples collected in dry forest areas. Additional material examined (5 specimens). BRAZIL: Bahia: Itaberaba, Faz. Riacho do Uruçu, 5.xii.1990, CRF Brandão, JLM Diniz & PS Oliveira cols., (1 worker) [MZSP]. Salvador, vii e x.2012, Melo T.S. col., (2 workers) [DZUP]. Ceará: Cratéus, São Luis, 05°08’S 40°51’W, 20-30.iv.2003, Y. Quinet col., pitfall, mata seca (1 worker) [MZSP]. Minas Gerais: Manga, Parque Estadual da Mata Seca, Estágio Intermediário, 26.ix.2008, Marques T. & estagiários, parcela 07, am. 3, estrato sub, UFV LABECOL n°000115 (1 worker) [UFV]., Published as part of Ladino, Natalia & Feitosa, Rodrigo M., 2020, Taxonomic revision of the genus Prionopelta Mayr, 1866 (Formicidae: Amblyoponinae) for the Neotropical region, pp. 201-249 in Zootaxa 4821 (2) on pages 232-233, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4821.2.1, http://zenodo.org/record/4398380

Prionopelta Mayr, 1866 Prionopelta Mayr, 1866: 503 (queen). Type-species: Prionopelta punctulata, by monotypy. Prionopelta in Ponerinae: Dalla-Torre, 1893: 15. Prionopelta in Amblyoponinae: Forel, 1893: 162; Forel, 1895:110 [Amblyoponeridae]. Prionopelta in Ponerinae, Proceratiini: Ashmead, 1905: 382. Prionopelta in Ponerinae, Ectatommini: Emery, 1911: 32 [subtribe Typhlomyrmecini]; Forel, 1917: 236; Wheeler, 1922: 642. Prionopelta in Ponerinae, Amblyoponini: Kusnezov, 1955: 275 [subtribe Ericapeltini]; Emery 1895: 766; Wheeler, 1910: 134; Brown, 1953: 11; Brown, 1960:173. Prionopelta in Amblyoponinae, Amblyoponini: Bolton, 2003: 42, 156; all subsequent authors. Junior synonyms: Concoctio Brown, 1974. Synonymy by Ward & Fisher, 2016: 691. Examblyopone Donisthorpe, 1949. Synonymy by Brown, 1951: 102. Renea Donisthorpe, 1947. Synonymy by Brown, 1953: 11. Genus references (Bolton, 2020): Dalla-Torre, 1893: 15 (catalogue); Forel, 1909: 242 (New World species key); Emery, 1911: 32 (diagnosis, catalogue); Chapman & Capco, 1951: 26 (Asia checklist); Wilson, 1958: 146 (Melanesia species key); Brown, 1960: 173, 218, 221 (review of genus, Neotropical species key, Indo-Australian species key); Kempf, 1972: 210 (Neotropical catalogue); Smith, 1979: 1335 (North America catalogue); Taylor & Brown, 1985: 39 (Australia catalogue); Taylor, 1987: 64 (Australia & New Caledonia checklist); Bolton, 1995a: 1052 (census); Bolton, 1995b: 364 (catalogue); Shattuck, 1999: 201 (Australia synopsis); Shattuck, 2008: 22 (Indo-Pacific species revision, key); Arias-Penna, 2008: 48 (Neotropical species key); Yoshimura & Fisher, 2012: 16 (male diagnosis); Overson & Fisher, 2015: (Malagasy species revision, key); Fisher & Bolton, 2016: (guide to Malagasy genera); Cantone, 2017: 106 (brief male diagnosis); Fern��ndez, Delsinne & Arias-Penna, 2019:501 (Neotropical species key). Genus diagnosis (New World species). Monomorphic amblyoponine ants. Body covered by punctulate, punctate and foveolate sculpturing, except for the smooth mandible, antenna, legs and propodeal declivity; integument entirely covered by pubescence and flexuous setae. Mandible tridentate, short and adjacent to clypeus when closed. Clypeus convex and anteriorly with a row of tooth-like stout setae, the surfaces of which are carinate (only visible under SEM images). Antennomeres 1���4 forming a club. Petiole broadly attached to gaster. Worker description. Small-sized ants (TL 1.23���1.76mm). Color pale-yellow to light brown. Integument thick, shiny and sculptured on head, mesosoma, petiole and gaster; surface of tooth-like setae of the anterior clypeal margin carinate; body with point-like sculpture that varies in size, depth and density and is more distinct on head dorsum, particularly on the lateral portion of frons; ventral portion of katepisternum weakly reticulate/aerolate; ventral portion of metapleuron weakly reticulate/imbricate. Body with three kinds of pilosity: pubescence, short setae, and long setae; pubescence converging to center/median line of sclerites, more obvious on head dorsum, pronotum and first gastral tergite; long setae almost of same length as antennomeres 1���2 together; short setae as long as preapical antennomere; in full-face view, mandible with short and long setae; dorsal and ventral surface of mandible with at least eight sparse, long and flexible setae each; anterior portion of the median area of clypeus with a pair of long flexible setae directed anteriorly; midportion of the clypeal median area with a pair of long flexible setae directed dorsally; posterior portion of the median area of clypeus with one long flexible seta directed dorsally; antenna pubescent, scape with short erect setae; head dorsum and mesosoma pubescent; pronotum with short, erect and dispersed setae; mesonotum and propodeum with sparse, erect and long setae; propodeal declivitous face devoid of pilosity; petiolar node with some erect and long setae; subpetiolar process with one or two long posteriorly curved setae. Head as long as or slightly longer than broad, lateral margins slightly convex, smoothly converging anteriorly; posterior corners convex; posterior margin weakly concave. Mandible subtriangular, short and adjacent to the anterior clypeal margin when closed; basal margin convex or straight; masticatory margin tridentate; apical tooth longest, size proportion between basal and median tooth variable, diastema between basal and median tooth longer than between the latter and the apical tooth. Anterior clypeal margin rounded or with median portion projecting anteriorly; anterolateral margin sinuate; medial carina not reaching the anterior margin; tooth-like stout setae slightly directed anterolaterally, apparently rising from the anterior clypeal margin and (1) under a clypeal lamella that varies in length or (2) welded along this lamella. Palp formula 2:2. Frontal lobe small, approximated, partially covering the antennal socket. Eleven or twelve antennomeres; antennomeres 1���4 forming a club, each one separated from the other by shallow to deep constrictions; scape elongate and uniform until half of its length, then slightly thick and curved at apex; scape not reaching the posterior margin of head. Compound eye reduced, set laterally at or immediately posterior to the head midlength. Postgenal suture present and complete, extending towards posterior margin; in ventral view, median portion of the occipital margin of head concave. Mesosoma unarmed. Dorsal profile evenly convex, interrupted only by the promesonotal suture and the metanotal groove. Dorsum of pronotum with anterior margin convex, lateral margin slightly converging to the promesonotal suture. Dorsum of mesonotum trapezoidal; ventral portion of katepisternum at lower level than adjacent surface. Propodeal spiracle small and directed ventrolaterally. Propodeal declivity slightly inclined posteriorly; ventral surface medially projected as an inconspicuous tubercle. Posteroventral propodeal lobe conspicuous (character 67 of Keller [2011]). Metapleural gland orifice opening posteriorly; ventral flap on the metapleural gland opening conspicuous (character 61 of Keller [2011]). Legs relatively short and robust with tarsal claws small and simple. Foreleg with large and rounded coxa; trochanter conspicuous and rounded; femur and tibia thickened; posterior face of the basitarsi with pronounced notch; four basal tarsomeres with a row of small and acute projections on the internal surface. Mid- and hindcoxae with a pair of longitudinal carinae on the dorsal surface; femur and tibia of midleg and hindleg more slender than in foreleg. Tibia of the midleg with a vestigial spur; hindleg with a pectinate spur; posterior face of the basitarsus notched. Petiole not pedunculated, node well developed. In dorsal view, anteroventral portion of the petiolar tergite anterior to the petiolar spiracle projected as a lateral carina (character 97 of Keller [2011]); lateral margin rounded. Spiracle small and rounded in profile; dorsal profile slightly and uniformly convex. Subpetiolar process conspicuous. Posteroventral angle of process mainly obtuse; anterior and posterior margins parallel or converging apically; posterior margin concave or straight; fenestra present. Petiolar sternite triangular, with rounded corners in ventral view; visible part of helcium rounded. Gaster elongate; prora present as a rounded anterolateral projection. Anterior face of first gastral sternite slightly concave between projections of prora. Deep girdling constriction of second gastral segment present. Sting apparatus well developed. Queen description. Slightly larger than workers (TL 1.56���2.11mm). Morphologically similar to workers, with mesosoma well-developed. Head with compound eyes large, placed at midlength of head; three well-developed ocelli arranged in an equilateral triangle, similar in size. Pronotal lobe small. Mesoscutum large and trapezoidal; promesonotal suture uniformly continuous in dorsal view; notauli incomplete when present; parapsidal lines and parascutellar carina present; tegulae and axillae flattened. Mesoscutellar disc at the same level of the mesoscutum; rounded. Mesosoma uniformly convex in lateral view. Oblique mesopleural sulcus incomplete, mesopleural pit conspicuous; spiracular sclerite subtriangular. Fullywinged forms. Wing venation as in Yoshimura & Fisher (2012): ���Forewing with a small stigma, radial sector absent between M+Rs and 2r-rs, radial sector reaching the costal margin, 2r-rs connected with radial sector distal to pterostigma, 2rs-m present, cu-a located far from junction between media and cubitus; hindwing with radius present, 1 rs-m present, media present apical to 1rs-m���. Four submedian hamuli present. Petiole and subpetiolar process similar to those of workers; gaster elongated and robust. Male description. Small to medium-sized (TL 1.60���2.00 mm). Color dark-yellow to brownish-black. Sculpture and pilosity traits similar to those of workers. With well-developed mesosoma. Head rounded. Posterior margin convex or slightly concave at its median portion; posterior corners convex. Mandible subfalcate; bidentate; apical tooth the longest. Clypeus with anterior margin projecting medially or evenly rounded; frontoclypeal suture smoothly converging to the frons with its median portion truncate or evenly rounded. Thirteen antennomeres; scape short. Compound eye large, occupying almost a quarter of head and set laterally, near to the frontoclypeal suture; three well developed ocelli present and similar in size. Mesosoma and wings similar to those of queens, complete notaulus always present. Petiolar node with anterior margin distinctly inclined posteriorly in profile; subpetiolar process with posteroventral margin straight. Gaster elongate and slender. Girdling constriction of the second gastral segment present and shallow. Etymology. Although not specified in the original description, the name refers to the combination of the row of tooth-like stout setae and the shape of the clypeus. From Greek, pr��on: saw and pelta: shield (Wheeler & Wheeler 1984). Comments. Prionopelta mocsaryi Forel, 1907, was excluded from this revision. It was described from a specimen putatively from Paraguay but it is actually a mislabeled specimen of Prionopelta opaca Emery, 1897, a Melanesian species (Wilson 1958; Brown 1960). Prionopelta mocsaryi is currently a junior synonym of P. opaca (Bolton 2020). We confirmed the synonymy through the examination of images of the relevant types at AntWeb.org. Workers and queens of the Neotropical species always have a well-impressed metanotal groove and 11 or 12 antennomeres, while some Old World species can have the metanotal groove indistinct, and fewer than 11 antennomeres (Brown 1960; Arias-Penna 2008; Fern��ndez et al. 2019). The worker caste shares a small body size; punctulate, punctate or foveolate sculpturing that is more conspicuous on the head dorsum; erect setae; abundant pubescence; a small genal tooth; and a reduced compound eye. The carinate surface of each tooth-like clypeal seta is clearly noticeable in the images available for the specimen ANTWEB 1008581 in AntWeb.org. A detailed morphological description of the larvae was provided by Wheeler & Wheeler (1952), based on five larvae and two ���semipupae��� from Colombia. The authors identified the specimens as P. punctulata, but we suspect they were misidentified and could have been specimens of Prionopelta antillana. We were not able to locate these specimens. Distribution. Neotropical Prionopelta species range from the central portion of USA state of Florida, the Caribbean Islands and Mexico to northwestern Argentina., Published as part of Ladino, Natalia & Feitosa, Rodrigo M., 2020, Taxonomic revision of the genus Prionopelta Mayr, 1866 (Formicidae: Amblyoponinae) for the Neotropical region, pp. 201-249 in Zootaxa 4821 (2) on pages 204-206, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4821.2.1, http://zenodo.org/record/4398380, {"references":["Mayr, G. (1866) Myrmecologische Beitrage. Sitzungsberichte der Kaiserlichen Akademie der Wissenschaften in Wien. Matematisch-Naturwissenschaftliche Classe, Abteilung I, 53, 484 - 517.","Dalla-Torre, K. W. (1893) Catalogus Hymenopterorum hucusque descriptorum systematicus et synonymicus. Vol. 7. Formicidae (Heterogyna). W. Engelmann, Leipzig, 289 pp. https: // doi. org / 10.5962 / bhl. title. 8794","Forel, A. (1893) Formicides de l'Antille St. Vincent, recoltees par Mons. H. H. Smith. Transactions of the Entomological Society of London, 1893, 333 - 418.","Forel, A. (1895) A fauna das formigas do Brazil. Boletim do Museu Paraense de Historia Natural e Ethnographia, 1, 89 - 139","Ashmead, W. H. (1905) A skeleton of a new arrangement of the families, subfamilies, tribes and genera of the ants, or the superfamily Formicoidea. Canadian Entomologist, 37, 381 - 384. https: // doi. org / 10.4039 / Ent 37381 - 11","Emery, C. (1911) Hymenoptera. Fam. Formicidae. Subfam. Ponerinae. Genera Insectorum, 118, 1 - 125.","Wheeler, W. M. (1922) Ants of the American Museum Congo expedition. Bulletin of the American Museum of Natural History, New York, 1139 pp.","Kusnezov, N. (1955) Zwei neue Ameisengattungen aus Tucuman (Argentinien). Zoologischer Anzeiger, 154, 268 - 277.","Emery, C. (1895) Die Gattung Dorylus Fab. und die systematische Eintheilung der Formiciden. Zoologische Jahrbucher. Abteilung fur Systematik, Geographie und Biologie der Tiere, 8, 685 - 778.","Wheeler, W. M. (1910) Ants: their structure, development and behavior. Columbia University Press, New York, xxv + 663 pp. https: // doi. org / 10.5962 / bhl. title. 1937","Brown, W. L. Jr. (1953) Characters and synonymies among the genera of ants. Part I. Breviora, 11, 1 - 13.","Brown, W. L. Jr. (1960) Contributions toward a reclassification of the Formicidae. III. Tribe Amblyoponini (Hymenoptera). Bulletin of the Museum of Comparative Zoology, 122, 143 - 230.","Bolton, B. (2003) Synopsis and classification of Formicidae. Memoirs of the American Entomological Institute, 71, 1 - 370.","Brown, W. L. Jr. (1974) Concoctio genus nov. Pilot Register of Zoology, Card No 29, 1.","Ward, P. S. & Fisher, B. L. (2016) Tales of dracula ants: the evolutionary history of the ant subfamily Amblyoponinae (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Systematic Entomology, 41, 683 - 693. https: // doi. org / 10.1111 / syen. 12186","Donisthorpe, H. (1949) A seventh instalment of the Ross Collection of ants from New Guinea. Annals and Magazine of Natural History, Series 12, 2 (18), 401 - 422. https: // doi. org / 10.1080 / 00222934908653993","Brown, W. L. Jr. (1951) New synonymy of a new genera and species of ants. Bulletin of the Brooklyn Entomological Society, 46, 101 - 106.","Donisthorpe, H. (1947) Some new ants from New Guinea. Annals and Magazine of Natural History, Series 11, 14 (111), 183 - 197. https: // doi. org / 10.1080 / 00222934708654624","Bolton, B. (2020) An online catalog of the ants of the world. Available from: http: // antcat. org (accessed 14 May 2020)","Forel, A. (1909) Ameisen aus Guatemala usw., Paraguay und Argentinien (Hym.). Deutsche Entomologische Zeitschrift, 1909, 239 - 269. https: // doi. org / 10.1002 / mmnd. 48019090209","Chapman, J. W. & Capco, S. R. (1951) Check list of the ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) of Asia. Monographs of the Institute of Science and Technology, Manila, 1, 1 - 327.","Wilson, E. O. (1958) Studies on the ant fauna of Melanesia. I. The tribe Leptogenyini. II. The tribes Amblyoponini and Platythyreini. Bulletin of the Museum of Comparative Zoology, 118, 101 - 153.","Kempf, W. W. (1972) Catalogo abreviado das formigas da regiao Neotropical. Studia Entomologica, 15, 3 - 344.","Smith, D. R. (1979) Superfamily Formicoidea. In: Krombein, K. V., Hurd, P. D., Smith, D. R. & Burks, B. D. (Eds.), Catalog of Hymenoptera in America north of Mexico. Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington, D. C., pp. 1323 - 1467.","Taylor, R. W. & Brown, D. R. (1985) Formicoidea. Zoological Catalogue of Australia, 2, 1 - 149 + 306 - 348.","Taylor, R. W. (1987) A checklist of the ants of Australia, New Caledonia and New Zealand (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization) Division of Entomology Report, 41, 1 - 92.","Bolton, B. (1995 a) A taxonomic and zoogeographical census of the extant ant taxa (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Journal of Natural History, 29, 1037 - 1056. https: // doi. org / 10.1080 / 00222939500770411","Bolton, B. (1995 b) A new general catalogue of the ants of the world. Harvard University Press, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 504 pp.","Shattuck, S. (1999) Australian ants. Their biology and identification. CSIRO Publishing, Collingwood, Victoria, xi + 226 pp. https: // doi. org / 10.1071 / 9780643100671","Shattuck, S. (2008) Revision of the ant genus Prionopelta (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in the Indo-Pacific region. Zootaxa, 1846 (1), 21 - 34. https: // doi. org / 10.11646 / zootaxa. 1846.1.2","Arias-Penna, M. (2008) Subfamilia Amblyoponinae. In: Jimenez, E., Fernandez, F., Arias, T. & Lozano-Zambrano, F. (Eds.), Sistematica, biogeografia y conservacion de las hormigas cazadoras de Colombia. Instituto de Investigacion de Recursos Biologicos Alexander von Humboldt, Bogota, D. C., pp. 41 - 52.","Yoshimura, M. & Fisher, B. L. (2012) A revision of male ants of the Malagasy Amblyoponinae (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) with resurrections of the genera Stigmatomma and Xymmer. PloS ONE, 7 (3), e 33325. https: // doi. org / 10.1371 / journal. pone. 0033325","Overson, R. & Fisher, B. L. (2015) Taxonomic revision of the genus Prionopelta (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) in the Malagasy region. ZooKeys, 507, 115 - 150. https: // doi. org / 10.3897 / zookeys. 507.9303","Fisher, B. L. & Bolton, B. (2016) Ants of Africa and Madagascar. A guide to the genera. University of California Press, x + 497 pp.","Cantone, S. (2017) Winged ants, the male, dichotomous key to genera of winged male ants in the world, behavioral ecology of mating flight. Autopubblicato, Sao Paulo, 318 pp.","Fernandez, F., Delsinne, T. & Arias-Penna, T. M. (2019) Subfamilia Amblyoponinae. In: Fernandez, F., Guerrero, R. J. & Delsinne, T. (Eds.), Hormigas de Colombia. Vol. 1. Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogota, D. C., pp. 501 - 508.","Keller, R. A. (2011) A phylogenetic analysis of ant morphology (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) with special reference to the poneromorph subfamilies. Bulletin of the American Museum of Natural History, 355, 1 - 90. https: // doi. org / 10.1206 / 355.1","Wheeler, G. C. & Wheeler, J. W. (1984) Myrmecological orthoepy and onomatology. 2 nd Edition. University of Dakota Press, Grand Forks, North Dakota, 20 pp.","Wheeler, G. C. & Wheeler, J. W. (1952) The ant larvae of the subfamily Ponerinae-Part I. American Midland Naturalist, 48, 111 - 144. https: // doi. org / 10.2307 / 2422136"]}

Prionopelta punctulata Mayr, 1866 Figures 29���33, 35D Prionopelta punctulata Mayr, 1866: 505. Holotype queen: BRAZIL: Paran�� [NHMW] (examined by images). = Prionopelta mayri Forel, 1909: 239. Holotype worker: BRAZIL, Santa Catarina, Hecko, CASENT0915650 [NHMW]. Synonymy by Brown, 1960:178. = Prionopelta bruchi Santschi, 1923: 245. Syntype workers: ARGENTINA, Cordoba, Alta Gracia, C. Bruch 1922 (2 specimens examined) [NHMB]. Synonymy by Brown, 1960:178. Diagnosis. Lateral portion of frons shallowly sculptured. Clypeus strongly projected medially. Eleven antennomeres. Margins of subpetiolar process apically convergent. Worker measurements (n=8). HL 0.46���0.52; HW 0.40���0.44; SL 0.22���0.27; WL 0.54 ���0.60; PrL 0.22���0.24; PrW 0.20���0.30; PetNL 0.12���0.16; PetW 0.22���0.26; PetH 0.14���0.19; PetL 0.14���0.20; T1L 0.18���0.26; T1W 0.30��� 0.38; TL 1.32���1.56; CI 80���91; SI 50���62; PetI 150���208; PetHI 87���112; PetWI 120���157. Queen measurements (n=3). HL 0.52���0.58; HW 0.48���0.50; SL 0.24���0.30; WL 0.79���0.87; PrL 0.13���0.21; PrW 0.32���0.34; PetNL 0.15���0.20; PetW 0.24���0.30; PetH 0.21���0.23; PetL 0.18���0.20; T1L 0.28���0.33; T1W 0.41���0.46; TL 1.83���1.91; CI 85���92; SI 48���62; PetI 150���173; PetHI 110���127; PetWI 120���166. Male measurements (n=3). HL 0.46���0.54; HW 0.52���0.58; SL 0.08���0.13; WL 0.80���0.90; PrL 0.06���0.10; PrW 0.17���0.19; PetNL 0.14���0.19; PetW 0.24���0.26; PetH 0.14���0.20; PetL 0.14���0.28; T1L 0.23���27; T1W 0.38���0.45; TL 1.67���1.99; CI 96���117; SI 14���23; PetI 136���178; PetHI 71���118; PetWI 93���171. Worker description. Body pale yellow, matte or shiny. Integument covered by sparse punctulate sculpturing; head dorsum with space between the punctures one or two puncture diameters. Head longer than broad; length of median tooth of mandible shorter than basal tooth; basal margin of mandible convex. Clypeus slightly projecting medially. Eleven antennomeres; antennomeres 1���4 separated by shallow constrictions. Eye placed at the head midlength. Pronotum almost as long as broad. Distance between the propodeal spiracle and the bulla of the metapleural gland corresponding to one spiracular diameter; distance between the propodeal spiracle and the propodeal dorsum corresponding to two spiracular diameters. Petiolar node as long as high. Subpetiolar process subtriangular or falciform, with its anterior and posterior margin converging apically; posterior margin concave; posteroventral angle mainly obtuse or acute. Queen. Like workers, with the expected morphology of Prionopelta queens. Male. Anterior clypeal margin projecting medially; head dorsum with dense punctulate sculpture, opaque. Distance between the propodeal spiracle and the bulla of the metapleural gland corresponding to one spiracular diameter; distance between the propodeal spiracle and the propodeal dorsum corresponding to almost two spiracular diameters. Etymology. Although not specified in the original description, the name probably refers to the punctulate body sculpturing. Distribution (Fig. 35D). Prionopelta punctulata is known from northern Brazil to northwestern Argentina. Comments. The species is easily distinguished from other Neotropical Prionopelta by its diagnostic characteristics. Prior to this study, Prionopelta punctulata was the only Neotropical species of the genus with 11 antennomeres. Here, we described two new species with the same antennal count. Prionopelta punctulata can be easily separated from P. menininha and P. tapatia by the very marked medial projection of the anterior clypeal margin, the finer sculpture of the head dorsum, and the margins of the subpetiolar process converging apically. The description of the genus is based on the characteristics of the queen, collected in southern Brazil (Paran��) and described by Mayr (1866) as P. punctulata (Fig. 29). The first worker was found in Santa Catarina, and after its description, the specimen was associated with the P. punctulata queen by Mayr (1887). Forel (1909) considered the worker to be a distinct species, which he named Prionopelta mayri. Prionopelta bruchi, from Argentina, was subsequently described by Santschi (1923). Brown (1960) synonymized these last two names under P. punctulata arguing that the differences between them were negligible, probably due to a different viewing angle, interpretation, and allometric variation. We concur with Brown���s synonymy. The distribution of Prionopelta punctulata is mostly centered in southern Brazil and northwestern Argentina. However, there are a few isolated records in the Brazilian central state of Goi��s, in Bahia and Piau�� in the northeast (Jory & Feitosa, 2020). However, the most peculiar record for the species is from the Central Amazon, in northern Brazil. Despite these isolated records, the specimens from all series can be perfectly recognized as P. punctulata. Natural history. Little is known of its biology. The species is mainly known from litter samples collected in tropical forests; reported at elevations of 170- 876m. Additional material examined(286 s pecimens). ARGENTINA:Misiones: Iguassu, 25��42���16������S, 54��21���17������W, 22-24.ix.1996, RBINS Leponce col., T2.17, leaf 24h, (1 worker) [CEPEC]. Tucum��n: N. Kusnezov col., ML10070, Prionopelta bruchi (1 queen, 2 males) [MZSP]; same data, -26.824144 -65.2226, ANTC4710, CASENT0102503 (1 queen) [MHNG]; same data, ANTC6537, CASENT0172312 (1 queen) [ANIC]; same data, 170m, ANTC6538, CASENT0172313 (1 male) [ANIC]; Sammiung, Fritz Schneider, Wadenswil, 1997 (3 males) [NHMB]; (1 male) [DZUP]. Santiago del Estero: Loreto, Mis. Dr. Ogloblin, Prionopelta bruchi (1 worker) [MZSP]. BRAZIL: Amazonas: PDBFF, Cidade Powell, 02��38���69������S 59��87���49������W, 20.viii.2016, Fernandes I.O. leg., coleta manual de solo (6 workers) [INPA]; (18 workers) [DZUP]. Bahia: Sambaiba, 11.i.1996, Nascimento I. (1 worker) [MZSP]; same data (3 workers) [CEPEC]; (1 worker) [DZUP]; same data, Mata Atl��ntica, 11��12���11������S 38��03���0.5������W, i.1996, Nascimento I. col. (1 queen) [UFGD]. Goi��s: Jata��, Faz. Ariranha, 17��57���40������S 51��51���24������W, 802m, 05.ii.2009, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (2 workers) [DZUP]. Faz. Lageado 17��49���51������S 51��31���21������W, 856m, 19.ii.2009 (1 worker) [DZUP]. Faz. Le��o, 17��48���23������S 51��41���45������W, 855m, 08.ii.2009, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (2 workers) [DZUP]; same data, 17��48���24������S 51��41���41������W, 861m, 21.ii.2009 (6 workers) [DZUP]. Faz. Rio Para��so, 17��44���6������S 51��34���30������W, 08.xi.2011, Diniz col., Winkler, A3: cerrado, s. stricto (37 workers) [DZUP]; (2 workers) [MZSP]. Faz. Sert��ozinho, 17��55���10������S 51��45���32.7������W, 657m, 05.ii.2009, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (21 workers, 1 queen) [DZUP]. Faz. Sta. Gertrudes, 17��50���10������S 51��43���09������W, 815m, 01.ii.2009, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (20 workers, 2 queens) [DZUP]; (1 worker) [MZSP]. Faz. Bonito, 18��24���15������S 52��03���19������W, 687m, 12.iv.2009, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler, S. officinarum (33 workers) [DZUP]; (8 workers) [INPA]; (1 worker) [NHMB]. Faz. Perdiz, 18��24���16������S 52��03���20������W, 687m, 12.iv.2009, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (7 workers) [DZUP]. Mato Grosso do Sul: Alcin��polis, P.N.M. Templo dos Pilares, Gruta da Lagoa, 18��08���56.7������S 53��40���43.5������W, 625m, 02-04.xi.2018, Silvestre R. et al. cols., Winkler (1 worker) [UFGD]. Corumb��, 18��58���45������S 56��38���33������W, 13-14.i.2016, Reis Filho W. et al. cols., Winkler (4 workers) [DZUP]. Faz. Nhumirin, 18-20.vii.2016, Reis Filho W. et al., cols. pitfall (2 workers) [DZUP]; same data, 13-14.i.2016 (3 workers) [DZUP]. Porto Murtinho, Chaco Florestado, Faz. Patol��, 21��42���0.29������S 57��43���7.73������W, 07.iii.2012, P.R. Souza & N. Rodrigues cols. (1 worker) [UFGD]. Minas Gerais: Uberl��ndia, Reserva Ecologica Panga, 19��10.840S 48��23.952W, 10.ix.2014, Formigas do Brasil cols., pitfall (1 worker) [DZUP]; same data, 19��10���02���S 48��23���37������W, 01.x.2002, Cau�� T. Lopes col. (1 worker) [UFGD]. Piau��: Caracol, P.N. da Serra das Confus��es, AntPeldT3 705m, 9��13���20.86������S 43��28���3.11W, 03-07.iii.2016, R.M. Feitosa, G.P. Camacho & M.F.O. Martins cols. (1 worker) [DZUP]. Cel. Jos�� Dias, P. N. da Serra da Capivara, AntPeldAltoT1, 8��44���30.02������S 42��31���2.58������W 590m, 08-12.iii.2016 R.M. Feitosa, G.P. Camacho & M.F.O. Martins cols. (1 worker) [DZUP]; same data, AntPeldAltoT2 (1 worker) [DZUP]. Santa Catarina: Blumenau, Reinchersperger leg. (3 workers) [NHMB]. Lauro Muller, Sul, xii.2011 -i..2012, 670456.00 (UTM long) 6859772.00 (UTM lat), M.L.C. Bartz et al. cols. (2 workers) [DZUP]; TSBF IT503 (2 workers) [DZUP]; pitfall IP501 (1 worker) [DZUP]. S��o Paulo: Agudos, 16.i.1955, W. Kempf col., (1 worker) [MZSP]; same data, 02.xi.1953, #948 (6 workers, 2 males) [MZSP]; same data, 26.xi.1955, #1472 (3 workers) [MZSP]; same data, 23.xi.1955 (4 workers) [MZSP]; same data, 10.i.1956 (1 worker) [MZSP]; same data, 30.i.1955, #1359 (2 workers) [MZSP]; same data, 21.xi.1955, #1463 (1 worker) [MZSP]; same data, 06.iii.1955, C. Gilbert col., #1392 (1 queen) [MZSP]; same data, vii.1959, C. Gilbert col., #3079 (1 worker) [MZSP]; same data, xi.1959, #3216 (1 worker) [MZSP]. Juquitiba, 30.x.1960, W. Kempf col., #3622 (6 workers) [MZSP]. Mirassol, 13.x.1971, J. Diniz col., #364, 10793 (1 worker) [MZSP]; same data, 09.ii.1972, #439, 10795 (6 workers) [MZSP]; same data, 1972, #470, 1105 (3 workers) [MZSP]; same data, Faz. B. Grande, 25.i.1975, #733, sob tronco podre (4 workers) [DZUP]; same data, Groto Parque, 23.ii.1977, #1350, em tronco (2 workers) [DZUP]. Monte Apraz��vel, Fazenda Bacur��, 27.ii.1974, J. Diniz, #697 (2 workers) [DZUP]; (2 workers) [MZSP]; same data, Rio S��o Jos�� dos Dourados, 11.ii.1976, Diniz, #926, sob tronco podre (3 workers) [DZUP]; (3 workers) [MZSP]. Parelheiro, 28.xii.1962, W.W Kempf, #5293 (1 worker) [MZSP]. Tocantins: Porto Nacional, Fazenda Alto Para��so, 10��43���32������S 48��28���05������W, 05-06.x.2001, Albuquerque & Silva cols., Winkler (3 workers) [DZUP]; (6 workers) [MZSP]. PARAGUAY: Canindey��: Salto del Guaira, -24.0625 -54.306946, 30.x.1979, F. Baud col., ANTC4712, CASENT0102586 (3 workers) [MHNG]; same data, CASENT0102505 (3 workers) [MHNG]. Reserva Natural del Bosque Mbaracay��, Jejuim��, -24.133333 -55.533333, 170m, 12.xi.2002, A.L. Wild col., AW1679, humid subtropical tall forest edge, under rotting wood, CASENT0173506 (1 worker, 1 queen, 1 male) [ALWC]; CASENT0173507 (1 queen) [ALWC]; CASENT0173508 (1 male) [ALWC]., Published as part of Ladino, Natalia & Feitosa, Rodrigo M., 2020, Taxonomic revision of the genus Prionopelta Mayr, 1866 (Formicidae: Amblyoponinae) for the Neotropical region, pp. 201-249 in Zootaxa 4821 (2) on pages 240-243, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4821.2.1, http://zenodo.org/record/4398380, {"references":["Mayr, G. (1866) Myrmecologische Beitrage. Sitzungsberichte der Kaiserlichen Akademie der Wissenschaften in Wien. Matematisch-Naturwissenschaftliche Classe, Abteilung I, 53, 484 - 517.","Forel, A. (1909) Ameisen aus Guatemala usw., Paraguay und Argentinien (Hym.). Deutsche Entomologische Zeitschrift, 1909, 239 - 269. https: // doi. org / 10.1002 / mmnd. 48019090209","Brown, W. L. Jr. (1960) Contributions toward a reclassification of the Formicidae. III. Tribe Amblyoponini (Hymenoptera). Bulletin of the Museum of Comparative Zoology, 122, 143 - 230.","Santschi, F. (1923) Solenopsis et autres fourmis neotropicales. Revue Suisse de Zoologie 30, 245 - 273. https: // doi. org / 10.5962 / bhl. part. 117787","Mayr, G. (1887) Sudamerikanische Formiciden. Verhandlungen der Kaiserlich-Koniglichen Zoologisch-Botanischen Gesellschaft in Wien, 37, 511 - 632.","Jory, T. T. & Feitosa, R. M. (2020) First survey of the ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) of Piaui: filling a major knowledge gap about ant diversity in Brazil. Papeis Avulsos De Zoologia, 60, e 20206014. https: // doi. org / 10.11606 / 1807 - 0205 / 2020.60.14"]}

Prionopelta amabilis Borgmeier, 1949 Figures 9–13, 35A Prionopelta amabilis Borgmeier, 1949: 203, figs. 3–5. Holotype worker: COSTA RICA: Hamburg Farm, F. Nevermann leg., MCZT-34787 [MCZ] (examined by images). Diagnosis. Median tooth of mandible shorter than basal tooth; anterior clypeal margin slightly projected medially; lateral portion of frons with sparse punctulate sculpturing, with interspaces flat and shiny, corresponding to three or more puncture diameters; head with sparse pubescence in dorsal-oblique view. Twelve antennomeres. Subpetiolar process with margins parallel or subparallel. Worker measurements (n=28). HL 0.48–0.60; HW 0.42–0.52; SL 0.24–0.34; WL 0.54 –0.71; PrL 0.22–0.30; PrW 0.28–0.36; PetNL 0.12–0.18; PetW 0.20–0.30; PetH 0.14–0.22; PetL 0.14–0.20; T1L 0.19–0.28; T1W 0.32– 0.42; TL 1.40–1.74; CI 78–89; SI 50–69; PetI 137–191; PetHI 87–150; PetWI 122–171. Queen measurements (n=9). HL 0.65–0.68; HW 0.55–0.57; SL 0.30–0.36; WL 0.89–96; PrL 0.17–0.18; PrW 0.38–0.47; PetNL 0.20–0.22; PetW 0.35–0.37; PetH 0.24–0.28; PetL 0.21–0.22; T1L 0.34–0.36; T1W 0.52–0.57; TL 1.86–2.11; CI 81–87; SI 52–65; PetI 159–185; PetHI 114–127; PetWI 166–168. Male measurements (n=1). HL 0.55; HW 0.60; SL 0.16; WL 0.96; PrL 0.04; PrW 0.15; PetNL 0.16; PetW 0.26; PetH 0.18; PetL 0.15; T1L 0.34; T1W 0.45; TL 2.00; CI 109; SI 26; PetI 162; PetHI 120; PetWI 173. Worker description. Body yellow to light brown. Integument covered mainly by sparse punctulate sculpturing; space between the punctures of lateral portions of frons corresponding to three or more puncture diameters in full-face view. Head longer than broad; length of median tooth of mandible shorter than basal tooth; basal margin of mandible convex. Anterior clypeal margin slightly projected medially. Twelve antennomeres; antennomeres 1–4 separated by deep constrictions. Eye placed immediately posterior to the head midlength. Pronotum broader than long. Distance between the propodeal spiracle and the bulla of the metapleural gland corresponding to almost one spiracular diameter; distance between the propodeal spiracle and the propodeal dorsum corresponding to two or three spiracular diameters. Petiolar node as long as high. Subpetiolar process subquadrate or subtriangular, with its anterior and posterior margins subparallel or apically convergent respectively; posterior margin concave; posteroventral angle acute. Queen. Distance between the propodeal spiracle and the propodeal dorsum equal to two spiracular diameters. Male. Anterior clypeal margin medially projected, frontoclypeal suture medially rounded; head dorsum with sparse punctulate sculpture, relatively shiny. Distance between the propodeal spiracle and the bulla of the metapleural gland corresponding to one spiracular diameter; distance between the propodeal spiracle and the propodeal dorsum corresponding to almost two spiracular diameters. Etymology. Unknown. Distribution (Fig. 35A). Prionopelta amabilis is known from the east coast of Honduras to south Brazil. Comments. The limits between P. antillana and P. amabilis have been one of the main taxonomic problems of the genus in the Neotropics, given their morphological similarity and sympatric distribution. South American specimens of P. amabilis have been historically considered probable morphological variations of P. antillana. In Central America, material corresponding to our new species P. dubia sp. n. has been routinely misidentified as P. amabilis or P. antillana. Here, the differences among the species are finally clarified, mainly in terms of density of pubescence and sculpturing, shape of clypeus, comparative length between the median and basal tooth of the mandible, and convergence of the subpetiolar process margins. In P. amabilis, the pubescence is sparse, the sculpture is shallow, the anterior clypeal margin is slightly projecting medially (somewhat triangular), the median tooth of the mandible is distinctly shorter than the basal tooth, and the margins of the subpetiolar process are parallel or subparallel. Prionopelta dubia sp. n has dense pubescence, the sculpture is shallow, the anterior clypeal margin is evenly rounded, the lengths of the median and basal teeth of mandible are similar, and the margins of the subpetiolar process are subparallel or parallel. Prionopelta antillana has the anterior clypeal margin slightly projecting medially, the median tooth of the mandible is distinctly shorter than the basal tooth, and the margins of the subpetiolar process are apically convergent. Natural history. The species is mainly known from litter samples collected in tropical forests; reported at elevations of 50– 960m. They nest in rotting logs and colonies may have large numbers of workers. Hölldobler & Wilson (1986) and Hölldobler et al. (1992) observed captive colonies collected during the dry season in well-developed secondary rainforest of Costa Rica. In the 1986 study, the authors censused and excavated colonies, observed the behavior of the ants and conducted a “cafeteria” experiment to study dietary choice, which consisted in offering living arthropods from leaf litter and rotting wood from the sites nearby original Prionopelta nests to the captive ants. Two large colonies were carefully excavated. The total population of the first colony was: one queen swollen with eggs, 709 workers, between 100 and 200 eggs, 82 larvae and 126 pupae; with the emergence of alate queens from the cocoons two days after the capture of the colony. The second population counted: a dealate queen, 282 workers, 100 eggs, 76 larvae and 264 pupae. Authors considered that the colonies are both monogynous and polydomous, discrete and kept apart by nestmate recognition. Cafeteria trials suggested a preference for campodeid diplurans as prey. The authors offered land snails, isopods, spiders, ricinuleans, mites, phalangids, pseudoscorpions, geophilomorph centipedes, millipedes, pauropods, campodeid and japygid diplurans, lepismatid and machilid thysanurans, entomobryomorph collembolans, kalotermitid and nasutermitine termite nymphs and workers, zorapteran nymphs and adults, hemipteran, tettigonid, earwig and gryllid nymphs as well as larvae and adults of ants and beetles. Prionopelta amabilis was capable of kill most of the groups cited above in two or three minutes, only ignoring the snails, spiders, phalangids, ricinuleans and millipedes. They affirm that the species has a rudimentary but well-marked division of labor based on age, correlated in turn with early rise in ovarian development and a decline as the workers turn increasingly to foraging. Also, the authors divided the workers in three classes based in age and the increasing of body pigmentation: light callow, medium callow and fully pigmented. Additionally, they provided interesting notes regarding grooming, trophallaxis, trophic eggs, brood care, alarm and what is called the phenomena of “ wall-papering” and “ foot-dragging”. The grooming among workers and self-grooming was less frequent than from workers to queen. No evidence of adult transport nor trophallaxis was found. Workers can have well-developed eggs and older workers frequently offered eggs to the queen, with no report of she feeding from any other manner. Workers were observed segregating eggs, small larvae, large larvae and pupae into separate piles; complementarily to this, the authors observed a “wallpapering” phenomenon, where they inferred that cocoon layers present in the walls of the galleries housing pupae served to keep them from growing to moist, contrary to the galleries occupied by the queen, eggs, larvae and resting group of workers. Workers rapidly responded to air currents and sudden illumination with a body vibration, also observed in the first approach to the queen and sometimes between workers, but the authors did not find any alarm pheromone. Nevertheless, when the workers were placed in a strange surface, they observed that the ant extended the legs backwards and dragged the tarsi for short intervals. This “foot-dragging” phenomenon was thought to be probably associated with trail laying or home range. In the 1992 study, the “foot-dragging” phenomenon was further explored. One large colony was collected, containing two queens with active ovaries and filled spermatheca, more than 500 workers and many larvae and pupae. Complementing the behavior associated with the phenomenon described above, a rapid vertical shaking of the body performed by the workers was frequently observed. Observations of the ants’ behavior as well as histology of front, middle and hindlegs were made, and the findings suggested that P. amabilis employ recruitment communication, somewhat associated with the “foot-dragging” phenomenon and the body shaking. The authors reported the presence of basitarsal glands in the hindlegs of workers and queens of the species, and demonstrate that their secretions are employed during recruitment to food sources and to new nesting sites; this is made during the perform of mechanical signals cited above, which apparently stimulates the nestmates to follow the trail. Prionopelta amabilis workers have been seen “walking under the fungus garden of Apterostigma sp., in the ground under a large rotten log” (Lívia Pires do Prado pers. comm., #LPP_303). Additional material examined (2409 specimens). BOLIVIA: Beni: Est. Biol. Beni, 42km, E. San Borja, 14°48’S 66°23’W, 210m, 5.ix.1987, P.S. Ward col., #9085-20, sifted litter (leaf mold, rotten wood, trop. moist forest), #9085-20, CASENT0863191 (3 workers) [PSWC]. BRAZIL: Acre: Mâncio Lima, PN Serra do Divisor, 07°26’17.19’’S 73°39’27.39’’W, 245m, 15-18.ix.2016, R.M. Feitosa, T.S. Silva & A.C. Ferreira cols., Winkler (1 worker) [DZUP]. Alagoas: Quebrângulo-wc, 0919s3628w, 31.vii.1999, Santos J.R.M. col. (6 workers) [CEPEC]. Amapá: Ferreira Gomes, FLONA AMAPÁ, 00°58’28.8’’N 51°38’44.6’’W, 02-06.ix.2016, Almeida R.P.S. & Siqueira E.L.S. cols., Winkler (2 workers) [MPEG]. Bahia: Colônia de Una, 15°15’42”S 39°09’12”W, 12.vi.1997, Carmo J.R.S. col. (1 worker) [CEPEC]. Faz. Boa Esperança, Camamu, 9.iii.1992, Silveira J.E. col., #4517 (2 workers) [DZUP]. Ibicaraí, km 41, 14537s 0392901w, 21.xi.1998, Santos J.R.M. col., (2 workers, 1 queen) [CEPEC]. Iguaí, 14°38’38’’S 40°09’12’’W, 907m, 2011-2012, Santos R. e cols., Winkler, submontane, ombrophylous (3 workers, 1 male) [CEPEC]. Ilhéus, Banco do Pedro, Mata W-A 23, 144051s 0391524w, 12.i.1998, Santos J.R.M. & Carmo J.C.S. cols. (1 male) [CEPEC]; same data, CEPEC, ii.1998, Exp. JDMaje98, #5218 (1 worker) [CEPEC]. Faz. Nova Esperança, 11.ix.1997, L.S. Ramos col. (3 workers) [DZUP]. Mata da Boa Esperança, 14°47’47’’S 09°03’56’’W, 09.xi.2000, Santos J.R.M. col., Winkler (1 worker, 1 queen) [MZSP]; (1 worker) [DZUP]. Itabuna, Mata Atlântica, 14°27’50.7’’S 39°10’26.3’’W, 19.i.1998, Santos J.R.M. col. (2 workers, 1 queen) [UFGD]. Itacaré- Taboquinha, 20.xii.1996, Santos J.R.M. col. (1 worker) [CEPEC]. Jussari, 15°08’26”S 39°31’29”W, 26.v.1999, J.C.S. Carmo & J.R.M. Santos cols. (2 workers, 1 queen) [DZUP]. Mata São João, Reserva Sapiranga, 12°33’29.3’’S 33°02’35.2’’W, 21-28.vii.2001, Silva R.R & Brandão C.R.F. cols., Winkler (1 worker, 1 queen) [DZUP]; (20 workers) [MZSP]. Nilo Peçanha, 13°38’58’’S 39°12’37’’W, 195m, 2011-2012, Santos R. e cols., Winkler, dense ombrophylous (1 worker) [CEPEC]. Olivença, Mata Atlântica, 14°59’13’’S 39°00’4.2’’W, 16.xi.1996, Santos J.R.M. col. (2 workers) [UFGD]. Porto Seguro, E.E. Pau Brasil, 16°23’33’’S 39°10’99’’W, 16.vi.2000, Santos JRM, Soares JC cols., Winkler (1 worker) [MZSP]. Taboquinha, 06-20.xii.1996, Santos J.R.M. col. (2 queens) [CEPEC]. Una, 15°15’78’’S 39°03’13’’W, 04.v.1998, Carmo J.C.S. col., #5240 (1 worker) [CEPEC]. Una-EDJABE, 07-12.viii.1994, S. Lacau col. (1 worker) [DZUP]. Wenceslau Guimarães, S 13°33’14’’ W 39°42’07’’, 485m, 2011-2012, Santos R. e cols., Winkler, submontane, ombrophylous (1 worker, 1 queen) [CEPEC]. Goiás: 16.xii.2005, Gustavo col., IDSC (Direito) 11, (2 workers) [DZUP]. Campinaçu, Serra da Mesa, 13°52’S 48°23’W, 18.ii-2.iii.1996, Silvestre, Brandão & Yamamoto col., peneira (1 queen) [MZSP]. Campo Limpo, Faz. Conceição, 16°19’51.0’’S 49°09’49.2’’W, 01- 07.vii.2005, Silva R.R. & Feitosa R.M. cols., Winkler (14 workers) [MZSP]; same data, 20-24.i.2005, Silva R.R. col. (30 workers) [MZSP]. Cavalcante, Serra da Contenda, 13°42’03.6’’S 47°21’51.9’’W, 16.x.2004, Silva R.R. & Dietz B.H. cols., Winkler (5 workers) [MZSP]. Colinas do Sul, Serra da Mesa, 14°01’S 48°12’W, 2-15.xii.1995, Silvestre, Dietz & Campaner cols., cerrado (1 worker) [MZSP]. Jataí, xii.1972, F.M. Oliveira col., #8936 (2 males) [MZSP]. Faz. Aceiro, 31.x.1962, Exp. Dep. Zool. (4 workers, 2 queens) [MZSP]; (6 workers, 1 queen, 1 male) [DZUP]. Faz. Ariranha, 17°57’34’’S 51°51’34’’W, 797m, 11.ii.2009, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (217 workers) [DZUP]. Faz. Lageado, 17°49’51’’S 51°31’21’’W, 856m, 19.ii.2009, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (111 workers, 10 queens) [DZUP]; same data, 21.ii.2009 (3 workers) [INPA]. Faz. Leão, 17°48’24’’S 51°41’41’’W, 843m, 21.ii.2009, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (3 workers) [DZUP]; same data, 861m (125 workers, 13 queens) [DZUP]; (2 workers, 1 queen) [INPA]. Faz. Primavera, 17°51’54’’S 51°39’56’’W, 817m, 09.xi.2008, G.G. Santos col., MiniWinkler (77 workers, 2 queens) [DZUP]; (5 workers, 1 queen) [INPA]. Faz. Rio Paraíso, 17°42’48’’S 51°37’39’’W, 02.xi.2011, Diniz col., Winkler A1: mata semidecidual (95 workers) [DZUP]; same data, 17°42’56’’S 51°37’45’’W, 28.ix.2009 (138 workers) [DZUP]; (3 workers) [INPA]; same data, 17°44’30’’S 51°37’13’’W, 03.xi.2011, A2: mata seca (92 workers, 1 queen) [DZUP]; same data, 17°44’55’’S 51°34’35’’W, 10.xi.2011, A5: mata semidecidual (104 workers, 1 queen) [DZUP]; same data, 17°44’8’’S 51°38’20’’W, 06.xi.2011, A4: Mata de galeria (32 workers, 1 queen) [DZUP]. Faz. Sta Gertrudes, 17°50’07’’S 51°43’04’’W, 876m, 02.ii.2009, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (35 workers, 1 queen) [DZUP]; (5 workers) [INPA]. Faz. Sta. Lúcia, 17°50’15.7’’S 51°39’23.9’’W, 793m, 11.x.2008, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (110 workers) [DZUP]; (3 workers) [INPA]. Faz. Sertãozinho, 17°55’14’’S 51°45’25’’W, 843m, 18.ii.2009, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (118 workers, 2 queens) [DZUP]. Mta. Açude, 17°51’31’’S 51°43’37’’W, 21.xii.2005, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (287 workers, 62 queens) [DZUP]; (3 workers) [INPA]; (8 workers, 7 queens) [MZSP]; (2 queens) [NHMB]; same data, 16.xii.2005, Gustavo G. Paniago col. (1 worker) [DZUP]; same data, 12.xi.2005, G. Santos & G. Paniagua cols., pelo chão (1 queen) [DZUP]. Montividiu, Faz. Veneza, 17°24’54.62’’S 51°29’2.44’’W, 960m, 07.iii.2009, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (30 workers, 2 queens) [DZUP]; (2 workers) [INPA]. Niquelândia, 14°01’S 48°18’W, 24.ix-6.x.1995, Silvestre, Dietz & Brandão cols., cerrado, peneira (3 workers) [MZSP]. Ouro Verde, Faz. Boa Vista, 16°17’54.5’’S 49°12’42.6’’W, 01-07. vii.2005, Silva R.R. & Feitosa R.M. cols., Winkler (8 workers) [MZSP]. Faz. São Cristovão, 18°5’32.87’’S 52°2’23.85’’W, 817m, 10.i.2009, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (128 workers, 5 queens) [DZUP]; (1 queen) [INPA]. Maranhão: Açailândia, Horto Fazenda Pompéia, 04°52’30’’S 47°17’40’’W, 13-22.ii.2006, Silva R.R & Feitosa R.M., Winkler (1 queen) [DZUP]; (1 workers, 1 queen) [MZSP]. Mato Grosso: Chapada dos Guimarães, Floresta Cachoeira, Pedra Furada, 18.ii.1985, Overal W.L. col., WLO850148, Berlese, pau podre (1 worker) [DZUP]; (1 worker) [MPEG]. Cuiabá, 15.ii.1976, R.I. Araujo col., col. Isoptera MZUSP n° 6539 (1 queen) [MZSP]. Utiariti, Rio Papagaio, 10.xi.1966, Lenko & Pereira, #4489 (3 workers) [MZSP]; same data, 26.x.1966, #4487 (18 workers) [MZSP]. Mato Grosso do Sul: Alcinópolis, P.N.M. Templo dos Pilares, Gruta da Lagoa, 18°08’56.7’’S 53°40’43.5’’W, 625m, 02-04.xi.2018, Silvestre R. et al. cols., Winkler (1 worker, 2 queens) [UFGD]. Antonio João, Faz. São Gabriel, Rio Dourados, 22.vii.2004, Silvestre R. col. (2 workers) [DZUP]; same data, i.2006 (1 worker) [DZUP]; same data, 22°06’36.4’’S 55°35’31.6’’W, vii.2006, Silvestre R. et al. cols., Winkler (1 worker) [DZUP]; (2 workers) [UFGD]. Minas Gerais: Ipaba, Faz. Macedônia, RPPN CENIBRA, xi.2005, Marques T. col., UFV LABECOL n°000158 (1 worker) [UFV]. Parque Estadual do Rio Doce, 19°47’49”S 42°34’38”W, 280m, 23- 24.viii.2005, TEAM exped., Mini-Winkler, trilha da Garapa Torta, floresta atlântica estacional, semidecidual (1 worker) [DZUP]. Pará: Belém, Pirelli, 1964, R. Arlé (1 worker) [MPEG]; same data, 27.v.1974, D. Dias, #13461, c/ACM hystrix 5.74.6 (1 worker) [MZSP]. Benfica, 12-19.viii.1962, K. Lenko col., #4530 (2 workers) [MZSP]. Curionópolis, Projeto Antas do Norte, TL, 06°13’47.1’’S 49°45’20.5’’W, 5-7.viii.2017, M.G.T. Tavares col., Winkler, C2T1 (1 worker) [MPEG]; same data, Serra Leste, 05°57’17.8’’S 49°37’00.4’’W, 30.xi.2016, E.Z. Albuquerque & M.G.T. Monteiro cols., Winkler (2 workers) [DZUP]; (, Published as part of Ladino, Natalia & Feitosa, Rodrigo M., 2020, Taxonomic revision of the genus Prionopelta Mayr, 1866 (Formicidae: Amblyoponinae) for the Neotropical region, pp. 201-249 in Zootaxa 4821 (2) on pages 213-218, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4821.2.1, http://zenodo.org/record/4398380, {"references":["Borgmeier, T. (1949) Formigas novas ou pouco conhecidas de Costa Rica e da Argentina (Hymenoptera, Formicidae). Revista Brasileira de Biologia, 9, 201 - 210.","Holldobler, B. & Wilson, E. O. (1986) Ecology and behavior of the primitive cryptiobiotic ant Prionopelta amabilis (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Insectes Sociaux, 33, 45 - 58. https: // doi. org / 10.1007 / BF 02224034","Holldobler, B., Obermayer, M. & Wilson, E. O. (1992) Communication in the primitive cryptobiotic ant Prionopelta amabilis (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Journal of Comparative Physiology, 171 (1), 9 - 16. https: // doi. org / 10.1007 / BF 00195956"]}

Prionopelta antillana Forel, 1909 Figures 14–17, 35B Prionopelta punctulata subsp. antillana Forel, 1909: 239. Lectotype worker (here designated): ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES, St. Vincent Island, Forel, CASENT0102529 (the top individual of a pin with 2 workers) [ZMUC] (examined by images). Paralectotype worker: same data as lectotype, Cotype MCZ20385 (examined by images) [MCZ]. Raised to species: Brown, 1960: 177. Prionopelta marthae Forel, 1909: 240. Syntype workers: VENEZUELA: Zig Zag, Forel, CASENT0102526 [MHNG] (the top specimen of a pin with 3 workers); same data (1 worker examined) (1 bottom worker misidentified) [NHMB]; CASENT0902630 (1 worker examined by images) [BMNH]. Combination in Typhlomyrmex: Brown, 1953: 104; in Prionopelta: Brown, 1965: 77. New synonym. Diagnosis. Median tooth of mandible shorter than basal tooth; anterior clypeal margin slightly projecting medially; lateral portion of frons with sparse or dense punctate sculpturing, with interspaces flat and shiny, corresponding to one or almost two puncture diameters; head with sparse pubescence in dorsal-oblique view. Twelve antennomeres. Subpetiolar process usually with margins apically convergent. Worker measurements (n=41). HL 0.45–0.54; HW 0.37–0.45; SL 0.18–0.30; WL 0.48 –0.67; PrL 0.19–0.30; PrW 0.23–0.34; PetNL 0.12–0.17; PetW 0.20–0.28; PetH 0.14–0.22; PetL 0.12–0.20; T1L 0.18–0.28; T1W 0.27– 0.43; TL 1.23–1.67; CI 80–95; SI 45–75; PetI 125–185; PetHI 80–128; PetWI 110–171. Queen measurements (n=3). HL 0.52–0.53; HW 0.46–0.47; SL 0.26–0.30; WL 0.76–0.78; PrL 0.14–0.18; PrW 0.30–0.40; PetNL 0.15–0.20; PetW 0.20–0.30; PetH 0.18–0.21; PetL 0.18–0.20; T1L 0.28–0.30; T1W 0.41–0.46; TL 1.77–1.80; CI 88–89; SI 55–65; PetI 125–150; PetHI 94–116; PetWI 105–150. Worker description. Body light yellow to light brown. Integument covered mainly by dense or sparse punctate sculpturing; space between the punctures of lateral portion of frons corresponding to one or almost two puncture diameters in full-face view. Head longer than broad; length of median tooth of mandible shorter than basal tooth; basal margins of mandibles convex. Clypeus slightly projected medially. Twelve antennomeres; antennomeres 1–4 separated by deep constrictions. Eye placed at the midlength of the head. Pronotum broader than long. Distance between propodeal spiracle and the bulla of the metapleural gland corresponding to one spiracular diameter; distance between the propodeal spiracle and the propodeal dorsum corresponding to two or three spiracular diameters. Petiolar node as long as high. Subpetiolar process subtriangular or falciform, with its anterior and posterior margins converging apically; posterior margin concave; posteroventral angle obtuse or acute. Queen. Similar to workers, with the expected morphology of Prionopelta queens. Male. Our translation of the description provided by Forel (1893) is: “L. 2.5 mm. Very similar to Amblyopone males, particularly to A. gheorghieffi Forel; but the wings have only one cubital cell and the transverse vein has an ulnar ramification. Hypopygium ends in an elongated medial tip, hairy and obtuse at its apex. External genital valves are very obtuse. The pygidium is rounded. Petiole is rounded, with a slight posterior slope, with a small, barely visible tubercle underneath. Head large, rounded; eyes very far forward; small ocelli. Shiny, finely reticulate. Pilosity erect, yellowish, very fine, short, oblique on tibiae and elsewhere (turning to pubescence), quite abundant. Pale yellowish-brown […]”. Etymology. Although not explicit in the original description, the name certainly refers to the type locality, “Antille St. Vincent ”. Distribution (Fig. 35B). Prionopelta antillana is known from Marion County and Sumter County in Florida, and the Caribbean Islands to south Brazil. Comments. Forel (1909) presented the first key for the identification of the Neotropical species of Prionopelta. In this key, P. marthae and P. punctulata subsp. antillana appear in the same couplet, with some ambiguous characteristics separating both species. Almost 50 years after its description, P. marthae was considered a junior synonym of Typhlomyrmex rogenhoferi Mayr, 1862 (Brown 1953), based on a Typhlomyrmex specimen mislabeled as syntype of P. marthae located in the collection of William M. Wheeler (MCZ). In consequence, the species was excluded from the key provided by Brown (1960). Later, the species was recognized as a member of Prionopelta, close related to P. antillana, and was transferred to this genus by Brown (1965). The examination of type specimens revealed that the bottom specimen mounted on the pin that holds syntypes of P. marthae deposited at NHMB belongs to the myrmicine genus Solenopsis. Also, the “cotype” specimen deposited in MCZ under the code MCZ-ENT00020384 belongs to the ectatommine genus Typhlomyrmex. Initially, subtle differences seemed to separate P. antillana and P. marthae, according to the original descriptions and among specimens accumulated in scientific collections, specifically regarding the head dorsum sculpturing, the shape of the subpetiolar process and the width of the first gastral segment. In fact, type specimens of P. marthae and P. antillana show morphological differences (CASENT0102526, CASENT0902630, CASENT0102529 and MCZENT20385). However, both forms are highly overlapped in their wide distribution, and the morphology follows a continuous variation that blurs the limits between the species. This was supported by the analysis of the measurements that showed a very close relationship between the individuals, in terms of variation and discrimination of groups (Fig. 36A, B). Still, we saw that some specimens of São Paulo, Paraná and Santa Catarina, Brazil, show a denser sculpturing on the head dorsum and different degrees of convergence between the margins of the subpetiolar process, features not considered in the statistical analysis. Considering the statements above, we synonymized P. marthae with P. antillana. Also, we believe that P. antillana still may harbor a complex of cryptic species difficult to resolve with morphology alone. Dr. James Wetterer (pers. comm.) made a great effort to illuminate the geographic spread of P. antillana. The following account is based on Dr. Wetterer’s notes on published and unpublished records of the species: “ P. antillana is a tiny ant with records from the West Indies, South America, Central America and subtropical central Florida […] I have collected the species at 48 sites on the West Indian Islands of Grenada (2), Guadeloupe (2), Martinique (5), Montserrat (4), Nevis (8), St. Kitts (8), St. Lucia (3), St. Vincent (8), and Trinidad (8). The islands of Grenada, Montserrat, Nevis, St. Kitts and St. Lucia have not reported the presence of the species so far […]. There is a difficulty in the distinction of P. antillana and P. amabilis, and then a probability of misidentification between both species in the records […]. Although Brown (1960) considered that the species was introduced to the Lesser Antilles, recent collecting have much filled the distributional gap. The current distribution of P. antillana is now understood considering the natural spread through short-distance island-hopping.” Part of the specimen records cited by Dr. Wetterer were confirmed in our work, and some of the unconfirmed ones follow the distribution of the species presented here (Fig. 35B). Nevertheless, our work only considers material examined directly by us or through high resolution images. Forel (1893) provided the description of a male specimen said to be P. punctulata collected at St. Vincent by Mons. H.H. Smith, as well as field annotations from the latter author. As insightfully noted by Dr. Flavia Esteves (pers. comm.) and in line with the distributions recognized here for P. punctulata and P. antillana, the male described by Forel actually belongs to P. antillana. Natural history. The species is mainly known from pitfall traps and leaf litter samples collected in tropical forests. It is reported at elevations of 200-1010m. Field annotations provided by Mons. H.H. Smith of specimens from St. Vincent under the name of P. punctulata are presented in Forel (1893). We summarize this information as follows: somewhat common and sluggish ants, generally found in shady and damp places, sharing the substrate with other ants. Differences between workers and queens do not seem to be very obvious. Deyrup et al. (2000) reported that the species may be introduced from the Lesser Antilles or Central America to the state of Florida, USA, where it is “common in rotten wood in parts of Marion and Sumter County”. The following account is based on the detailed observations of Deyrup et al. (2016) about the presence of P. antillana in Florida: the worker caste of the species is small and cryptic, collected in soil, under low evergreen scrub oaks, in mesic hammocks, sand pine scrub and leaf litter samples; known from a 2004 expedition near the Big Scrub Campground in Ocala National Forest and during the Florida ant survey. This species is the unique record of the genus in the United States, probably imported to Marion County from West Indies, it spread slowly ever since, and eventually should occupy southern Florida. The city of Silver Spring and a botanical garden located there might be the entering site for the introduction of the species, since famous films supposedly set in the tropics were filmed there, like 1930s Tarzan movies with Johnny Wissmuller, in which aquatic adventures in Silver Springs are jarringly intermixed with odd footage from Africa and elsewhere. Perhaps tropical plants were brought for some scenes. These last statements about the origin of the species introduction in Florida were also noticed by Dr. Andrea Lucky (pers. comm.) and discussed. Additional material examined (259 specimens). BOLIVIA: Santa Cruz: Buena Vista, -17.45 -63.66667, 350m, 18.xii.1993, P.S. Ward col., PSW12438, second-growth rainforest, sifted litter, CASENT0006076 (1 worker) [UCDC]. BRAZIL: Distrito Federal: Brasilia, Tabatinga, F.Z. Cooperbrás, 2003-2004, Schmidt F.G.V. col., pitfall (1 worker) [CEPEC]. Espirito Santo: Sta. Teresa, 25.i.1994, I.C. Nascimento col., #4782 (7 workers) [DZUP]. Goiás: Jataí, Faz. Primavera, 17°51’54’’S 51°39’56’’W, 817m, 09.xi.2008, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (17 workers, 1 queen) [DZUP]. Faz. Santa Lúcia 17°50’15.7’’S 52°2’23.9’’W, 793m, 11.x.2008, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (1 worker) [DZUP]. Mta. Açude, 17°51’31’’S 51°43’37’’W, 21.xii.2005, G.G. Santos col., Mini-Winkler (1 worker, 1 queen) [DZUP]. Maranhão: Açailândia, Horto Fazenda Pompéia, 04°52’30’’S 47°17’40’’W, 13-22.ii.2006, Silva R.R. & Feitosa R.M. cols., Winkler (4 workers) [MZSP]. Balsas, Mata do Capão do Catulé, 09°22’53.8’’S 46°44’59.3’’W, 22.ix-05.x.2006, Silva R.R. & Feitosa R.M. cols. (1 worker) [MZSP]. Minas Gerais: Parna do Cipó, Cachoeira da Farofa, -19.379412 -43.575782, 877m, 11.v.2016, J. Chaúl col., #014, Winkler, epigaeic, ANTWEB1032567 (1 queen) [UFV]. Paraná: Morretes, Parque Estadual do Pau-Ôco, 25°34’33.5’’S 48°53’19.5’’W, 6-11.v.2002, Silva R.R. & Dietz B.H. cols., Winkler (9 workers) [MZSP]; (2 workers) [DZUP]. Rondônia: Porto Velho, Área Abunã, A11P1, 09°38’36’’S 65°26’54’’W, 02-16.x.2013, Mazão G.R. & Mendoça R.T.T. cols. (1 worker) [DZUP]. Santa Catarina: Blumenau, 27°06’15’’S 49°09’14’’W, 20-27.x.2000, Silva R.R. col., Winkler, solo (5 workers) [MZSP]; same data, P.E. Nascentes, 27°01-06’S 49°01-10’W, 10.ii.2001, Eberhardt col., Winkler (1 worker) [MZSP]. Morro da Serra, xii.1958, F. Plaumann col. (1 worker) [MZSP]. Palhoça, PE Serra do Tabuleiro, 27°44’28’’S 48°41’50’’W, 02-10.vi.2003, Silva R.R., Dietz B.H. & Tavares A. cols., Winkler (25 workers, 3 queens) [MZSP]; same data (2 workers) [DZUP]. São Bento do Sul, APA Rio Vermelho, 26°21’51’’S 49°16’16’’W, 30.iii-04.iv.2001, Silva R.R. & Eberhardt F. cols., Winkler (19 workers) [MZSP]; (4 workers) [DZUP]. São Paulo: Faz. Intermontes, iv.2009 (1 worker) [MZSP]. M. Cruzes, R. Itatinga, 23°45’02’’S 46°07’63’’W, 720m, 12.vii.2000, M.S.C. Morini col., Winkler, área de mata (1 worker) [CEPEC]. Tapiraí, 24°01’55’’S 47°27’56’’W, 08-14.i.2001, Silva & Eberhardt cols., Winkler (2 workers) [MZSP]. Ubatuba, P.E.S.M. N. Picinguaba, 23°17’54.4’’S 44°47’49.2’’W, 600m, 23.i.2006, Scott-Santos C.P. & Santos E.F. cols., Winkler (3 workers) [MZSP]; same data, 23°18’21.6’’S 44°48’25.2’’W, 400m, 05.i.2006 (5 workers) [MZSP]; same data, 19.iii.2006 (2 workers) [MZSP]; same data, 23°19’08.4’’S 44°49’4.8’’W, 200m, 18.iii.2006 (3 workers) [MZSP]. Tocantins: Recursolândia, Mata Ciliar Rio Mateiros, 08°45’28.6’’S 47°02’20.7’’W, 09-12.v.2005, Silva R.R. & Dietz B.H. cols., Winkler (15 workers) [MZSP]. COLOMBIA: Antioquia: La Calandria, 06°46’31’’N 75°05’53’’W, 1010m, 08.v.1998, F. Serna col. (2 workers) [DZUP]. Magdalena: 4km N. San Pedro 10°57’N 74°03’W, 550m, 14.viii.1985, J. Longino col., #763-S, wet forest, litter sample, LACM ENT 142650 (2 workers) [JTLC]; same data, 10.95 -74.05, P.S. Ward col., PSW07912 -2, rainforest, sifted litter (leaf mold, rotten wood), CASENT0260463 (2 workers) [PSWC]. ECUADOR: Zamora-Chinchipe: ENE Yantzaza, Estación El Padmi, 18.7 Universidad Nacional de Loja, 3°44’44.59’’S 78°36’51.70’’W, 835m, 14.vi.2014, C. Gómez, M. Tuza, G. Piedra, M. Vélez & J. Lattke col. (2 workers) [MZSP]; (21 workers) [DZUP]. FRENCH GUIANA: Saül: Mont Chauve, 250m, 24.iv.1997, R. Garrouste col., (6 workers) [CEPEC]; (1 worker) [DZUP]. GUADELOUPE: Basse Terre: Piton de Ste. Rose, 16.33166 -61.76206 ± 50m, 320m, 26.v.2012, R.S. Anderson col., #RSA2012-148, ex. sifted leaf litter, deciduous forest, CASENT0630440 (1 worker) [JTLC]. PERU: Cusco: Est. Biol. Villa Carmen, -12.902437° -71.407672° ± 300m, 590m, 05-15.viii.2013, Ant Course 2013 cols., bamboo forest, secondary vegetation (1 worker) [DZUP]. Madre de Dios: Est. Biol. Villa Carmen, -12.875296° -71.410954°± 300m, 650m, 05-15.viii.2013, Ant Course 2013 cols., rainforest, (2 workers) [DZUP]; same data, -12.902437° -71.407672° ± 300m, 590m, bamboo forest, secondary vegetation (1 worker) [DZUP]. Tambopata Research Center, -13.14535 -69.61483 ± 100m, 276m, 01.vii.2000, D. Feener col., TRC-S14-007-R1C10, ex. sifted leaf litter, bamboo forest, CASENT0635236 (1 worker) [JTLC]. SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES: St. Vincent, Vermont Nature trail, 13.21632 -61.21416 ± 25m, 365m, 05.v.2015, B.L. Fisher col., BLF#37240, rainforest, ANTWEB, CASENT0767588 (1 worker) [CASC]; BLF#37241, CASENT0768612 (1 worker) [CASC]; CASENT0768611 (1 worker) [CASC]; BLF#37243, CASENT0767564 (1 worker) [CASC]; CASENT0767562 (1 worker) [CASC]; BLF#37248, CASENT0767570 (1 worker) [CASC]; BLF#37248, CASENT0767569 (1 worker) [CASC]; BLF#37233, CASENT0767621 (1 worker) [CASC]; same data, 18.v.2015,B.L. Fisher col., BLF#37246, hand collection, sifted litter, miscellaneous collection, not a nest series, CASENT0767612 (1 worker) [CASC]; same data, 12.v.2015, BLF#37240, CASENT0767588 (1 worker) [CASC]. SURINAME: Poeroe mankemisa: ix.1959, I.v.d. Drift col., 2-xxla-5 (1 worker) [MZSP]. Tambah-redjo: vi.1959, I.V.D. Drift col., 42-viiicd-2 (9 workers) [MZSP]; (3 workers) [DZUP]; same data, 45-DVla-7 (3 workers) [DZUP]; same data, 1-viiib-6 (2 workers) [MZSP]; same data, 38.VLcd-12 (3 workers) [MZSP]. UNITED STATES: Florida: Marion, Ocala Nat. Forest, Big scrub camp area, 29.08017 -82.25817, 28.viii.2004, Deyrup M. col., ANTC5127, Quercus geminata thicket, introduced, CASENT0103911 (5 workers) [ABS]. VEN-EZUELA: Apure: Caño Maporal ca. Est. Unellez, 21.viii.1983, J. Lattke col., #455, CASENT0810393 (3 workers) [MIZA]. Aragua: Henri Pittier National park, 10.36667 -67.82667, 860m, 03.ix.2003, E. Rodríguez, A. Grotto & J. Lattke cols., JEL2842, La Esperanza, Bosque Semi decíduo, ex. hojarasca, CASENT0178694 (1 worker) [MIZA]. Parque Nacional Henri Pittier, 10°22’8”N 67°49’29”W, 870m, 03.iii.2003, E. Rodríguez, R. Luján & J. Lattke cols., Winkler, La Esperanza (nome de um setor na montanha), floresta semi-decídua (21 workers) [DZUP]; (1 worker) [MZSP]; (2 workers) [NHMB]; same data, Finca Sta Maria, 10.3602° -67.8219°, 650m, 15.viii.2003, J. Lattke col., #2669, soil sample (1 worker, 1 queen) [DZUP]. Portuguesa: Qda. La Guata, 12km de Biscucuy, 600m, 21.v.1983, #464, CASENT0810394 (3 workers) [MIZA]. Táchira: Vía Sta. Ana, Río Frío, 1000m, 14.viii.1983, J. Lattke & G. Borges col., CASENT0810424 (4 workers) [MIZA]., Published as part of Ladino, Natalia & Feitosa, Rodrigo M., 2020, Taxonomic revision of the genus Prionopelta Mayr, 1866 (Formicidae: Amblyoponinae) for the Neotropical region, pp. 201-249 in Zootaxa 4821 (2) on pages 221-225, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4821.2.1, http://zenodo.org/record/4398380, {"references":["Forel, A. (1909) Ameisen aus Guatemala usw., Paraguay und Argentinien (Hym.). Deutsche Entomologische Zeitschrift, 1909, 239 - 269. https: // doi. org / 10.1002 / mmnd. 48019090209","Brown, W. L. Jr. (1960) Contributions toward a reclassification of the Formicidae. III. Tribe Amblyoponini (Hymenoptera). Bulletin of the Museum of Comparative Zoology, 122, 143 - 230.","Brown, W. L. Jr. (1953) Characters and synonymies among the genera of ants. Part I. Breviora, 11, 1 - 13.","Brown, W. L. Jr. (1965) Contributions to a reclassification of the Formicidae. IV. Tribe Typhlomyrmecini (Hymenoptera). Psyche, 72, 65 - 78. https: // doi. org / 10.1155 / 1965 / 36792","Forel, A. (1893) Formicides de l'Antille St. Vincent, recoltees par Mons. H. H. Smith. Transactions of the Entomological Society of London, 1893, 333 - 418.","Deyrup, M., Davis, L. & Cover, S. (2000) Exotic ants in Florida. Transactions of the American Entomological Society, 126, 293 - 325.","Deyrup, M. (2016) Ants of Florida: Identification and natural history. CRC Press, Boca Raton, Florida, 423 pp. https: // doi. org / 10.1201 / 9781315368023"]}

Prionopelta modesta Forel, 1909 Figures 25–28, 35C Prionopelta modesta Forel, 1909: 241. Lectotype worker (here designated): GUATEMALA, Forel (the top specimen of a pin with 2 workers), CASENT0102527 [MHNG] (examined by images). Diagnosis. Lateral portion of frons with foveolate sculpturing moderately spaced and conspicuous shiny interspaces appearing as small raised margins. Twelve antennomeres. Posterior margin of subpetiolar process concave. Worker measurements (n=5). HL 0.50–0.54; HW 0.44–0.48; SL 0.26–0.28; WL 0.54–0.67; PrL 0.24–0.28; PrW 0.22–0.32; PetNL 0.13–0.18; PetW 0.23–0.28; PetH 0.16–0.21; PetL 0.16–0.17; T1L 0.24–0.26; T1W 0.34– 0.39; TL 1.44–1.62; CI 84–88; SI 54–62; PetI 150–200; PetHI 100–123; PetWI 135–175. Queen measurements (n=4). HL 0.48–0.58; HW 0.44–0.52; SL 0.27–0.30; WL 0.71–0.83; PrL 0.12–0.13; PrW 0.26–0.33; PetNL 0.14–0.16; PetW 0.24–0.29; PetH 0.18–0.23; PetL 0.14–0.20; T1L 0.23–0.33; T1W 0.37–0.45; TL 1.56–1.94; CI 89–91; SI 57–61; PetI 171–181; PetHI 115–128; PetWI 145–171. Worker description. Body yellow to light brown. Integument covered by deep and dense foveolate sculpturing with conspicuous shiny spaces between the fovea on the lateral portion of frons, appearing as small raised margins in full-face view. Pubescence abundant over the entire body. Head longer than broad; length of median tooth of mandible shorter than basal tooth; basal margin of mandible convex. Clypeus evenly rounded. Twelve antennomeres; apical ones separated by deep constrictions. Eye placed at the head midlength. Pronotum almost as long as broad. Distance between the propodeal spiracle and the bulla of the metapleural gland corresponding to one spiracular diameter; distance between the propodeal spiracle and the propodeal dorsum corresponding to two spiracular diameters. Petiolar node as high as long. Subpetiolar process forming a relatively broad lobe, with its anterior and posterior margins subparallel or parallel; posterior margin concave; posteroventral angle obtuse. Queen. Like workers, with the expected morphology of Prionopelta queens. Male. Anterior clypeal margin medially rounded; frontoclypeal suture relatively trapezoidal and truncate medially. Etymology. Unknown. Distribution (Fig. 35C). The species is known from northern Mexico to western Guyana. Comments. The species was commonly considered as the only Neotropical Prionopelta with dense sculpturing on the head dorsum, giving the appearance of an opaque integument. Although this trait can be currently used to separate P. modesta from the other species occurring in Central America, the densest and deepest sculpturing on head dorsum of all the Neotropical species described in this work belongs to P. minuta, from which P. modesta can be separated by the larger body size and the concave posterior margin of the subpetiolar process. Prionopelta modesta is mostly distributed through Central America. Hence, the isolated records of the species in Guyana and Colombia are unexpected. We have examined a considerable number of Prionopelta specimens from Panama and Venezuela and we were not able to recognize any P. modesta individuals in these samples. At the same time, the P. modesta specimens from Guyana and Colombia, examined here, fit with the species diagnosis. Thus, further collection records would be useful to better understand the distribution pattern of the species. Natural history. The species is mainly known from litter and dead wood samples collected in tropical forests; reported at elevations of 50-1840m. According to observations available in Brown (1960) about several colonies of P. modesta collected at Pueblo Nuevo, Veracruz, Mexico, colonies appear to be split into sections and occupy bits of rotting wood or bark in the leaf litter. The individuals found in these fragments (workers or workers and larvae) could indicate a low level of organization or that the ants could be more or less nomadic. In a “cafeteria” experiment, several live and dead arthropods were offered, but, overall, just a timid response on the workers’ part was observed, with individuals mostly recoiling violently when their antennae came into contact with the potential prey. On the other hand, some specimens were capable of biting, hanging onto, and stinging into immobility somewhat large arthropods. Still, based on these observations, the usual prey may include small centipedes or symphylans, but further examination of nests needs to be done to determine what Prionopelta feeds upon. Additional material examined (56 specimens). COLOMBIA: Meta: Transecto Sumapaz, 3.8666667 -74.416664, 1120m, 09.viii.1981, T. van der Hammen col., SUM29, CASENT0260467 (1 worker) [PSWC]. COSTA RICA: Alajuela: 6km E. Monteverde, 10.29897 -84.74932 ± 50m, 980m, 18.v.2014, J. Longino col., #8693-s, ex. sifted leaf litter, wet forest, CASENT0635127 (1 worker) [DZUP]; CASENT0635130 (1 queen) [JTLC]; same data, 10°18’N 84°45’W, 950m, 22.viii.1985, #861-s, LACM ENT 142643 (1 worker, 1 queen) [JTLC]; same data, Rio Peñas Blancas, 10.3167 -84.7167, 800m, 26.iv.1987, J. Longino col., JTL1578, CASENT0039774 (1 worker) [JTLC]. Limón: Cerro Plátano, 9.87132 -83.23955 ± 10m, 1020m, 16.vi.2015, ADMAC, #Wa-E-03-1-36, ex. sifted leaf litter, cloud forest, CASENT0636747 (1 worker) [DZUP]; CASENT0636750 (1 queen) [JTLC]. Res. Biol. Hitoy-Cerere, 9.65238 -83.02206 ± 25m, 530m, 11.vi.2015, ADMAC, #Wm-E-02-1-03, ex. sifted leaf litter, tropical rainforest, CASENT0632088 (1 queen) [DZUP]; same data, 670m, #Wm-E-02-1-06, CASENT0632089 (1 worker) [JTLC]. Puntarenas: 10km SW Pto. Jimenez, 8.46553 -83.36928 ± 30m, 240m, 12.iii.2008, J. Longino col., #6197-s, CASENT0601692 (1 worker) [JTLC]. GUATEMALA: El Petén: Cerro Cahul, 17.00056°N 89.71992°W, 330m, 24.v.2009, J. Longino col., #6683.1, moist forest, ex. dead wood, CASENT0611043 (1 worker) [JTLC]. Izabal: 16km ESE Morales, 15.41109°N 88.71184°W ± 28m, 440m, 19.v.2009, LLAMA, #Wm-B-04-2-03, ex. sifted leaf litter, 2° lowland rainforest, CASENT0611474 (1 worker) [DZUP]; CASENT0611473 (1 queen) [JTLC]. GUYANA: Mt. Ayanganna Base Camp, 5.33438 -59.92477, 732m, 09.x.2002, J.S. LaPolla col., JSL021009-03- LS01, litter sample, forest, USNMENT00418417 (1 worker) [USNM]. HONDURAS: Atlántida: 8km SSW Tela, 15.70961 -87.46828 ± 20m, 360m, 17.vi.2010, LLAMA, #Wm-C-08-2-07, ex. sifted leaf litter, tropical rainforest, CASENT0618691 (1 worker) [JTLC]; same data, 7km SSW Tela, 15.724667 -87.451935, 190m, 15.vi.2010, #Wa-C-08-2-14, Mini-Winkler, CASENT0618342 (1 queen) [JTLC]. Comayagua: PN Cerro Azul Meambar, 14.87160 -87.90324 ± 50km, 880m, 21.v.2010, B. Boudinot col., BEB0198, montain rainforest clearing in rotting wood or in soil, CASENT0615797 (1 worker) [JTLC]; CASENT0615793 (1 male) [JTLC]; same data, 14.87125 -87.90018 ± 20m, 1120m, 20.v.2010, LLAMA, #Wa-C-04-1-06, ex. sifted leaf litter, ridgetop cloud forest, CASENT0615245 (1 queen) [JTLC]. MEXICO: Chiapas: 2.8km SE Custepec, 15°43’N 92°56’W, 1840m, 18.vii.2007, R.S.Anderson col., #2007-022, CASENT0602079 (1 worker) [JTLC]. Laguna Metzabok, 17°08’N 91°38’W, 600m, 14.vii.2007, J. Luna-Cozar col., JTLC000009920 (1 queen) [DZUP]; JTLC000009933 (1 worker) [JTLC]. 12mi NW Ocozo- coautla, 3200ft, 04-05.ix.1973, A. Newton col., hojarasca, madera podrida, CASENT0810430 (1 worker) [MIZA]. 9km SE Santo de Agua, 17°31’N 92°18’W, 50m, 14.vii.2007, R.S. Anderson col., #2007-011, CASENT0602008 (1 worker) [DZUP]; CASENT0601990 (1 queen) [JTLC]. Nayarit: Isla Maria Madre, 22.vi.1948, M. Cardenas col., #1712, 9076 (9 workers) [MZSP]; same data, 23.vi.1948 (4 workers) [MZSP]. Oaxaca: Uluapan, 4km NE Ayautla, 18.06018 -96.64484 ± 200m, 440m, 09.vi.2016, ADMAC, #Wm-F-03-1-03, ex. sifted leaf litter, lowland rainforest, CASENT0640598 (1 queen) [DZUP]; CASENT0640607 (1 worker) [JTLC]. Veracruz: Est. Biol. Los Tuxtlas, 18.58704 -95.07627 ± 30m, 170m, 31.v.2016, ADMAC, #Ba-F-01-2-04-09, CASENT0640202 (1 worker) [JTLC]; same data, 18.58625 -95.07665 ± 20m, 180m, 29.v.2016, #Wa-F-01-2-18, ex. sifted leaf litter, tropical rainforest, CASENT0640340 (1 queen) [JTLC]. Los Tuxtlas, 10km NW Sontecomapan, 18.58333 -95.08333, 200m, 20.iii.1985, P.S. Ward col., PSW07333 -11, rainforest, sifted litter (leaf mold, rotten wood), CASENT0260466 (2 workers) [PSWC]. Sierra Taviscocla above Cuichapa, 04.viii.1965, W.L. Brown col., (9 workers) [MZSP]. NICARAGUA : Jinotega: Parque Nac. Saslaya, 13.76836 -85.02344 ± 50m, 1060m, 14.v.2011, J. Longino col., #JTL7556, montane wet forest, under rotten wood, CASENT0619506 (1 worker) [JTLC]. Matagalpa: RN Cerro Musún, 12.96817 -85.23301 ± 20m, 1060m, 02.v.2011, LLAMA, #Wm-D-01-1-07, ex. sifted leaf litter, montane wet forest, CASENT0624190 (1 worker) [JTLC]., Published as part of Ladino, Natalia & Feitosa, Rodrigo M., 2020, Taxonomic revision of the genus Prionopelta Mayr, 1866 (Formicidae: Amblyoponinae) for the Neotropical region, pp. 201-249 in Zootaxa 4821 (2) on pages 236-239, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4821.2.1, http://zenodo.org/record/4398380, {"references":["Forel, A. (1909) Ameisen aus Guatemala usw., Paraguay und Argentinien (Hym.). Deutsche Entomologische Zeitschrift, 1909, 239 - 269. https: // doi. org / 10.1002 / mmnd. 48019090209","Brown, W. L. Jr. (1960) Contributions toward a reclassification of the Formicidae. III. Tribe Amblyoponini (Hymenoptera). Bulletin of the Museum of Comparative Zoology, 122, 143 - 230."]}

Prionopelta tapatia sp. n. Figures 34, 35D Holotype worker: MEXICO: Jalisco: Tamazula de Gordiano, Cerro de la Mesa, 9.x.2016, 19°41’21’’N 103°15’19’’O, 1442m, Hojarasca, M. Vasquez-Bolaños col., DZUP549796 [DZUP]. Paratype worker. same data as holotype, DZUP549797 (head separate, glued to triangle) [DZUP]. Diagnosis. Lateral portion of frons deeply sculptured in full-face view. Eleven antennomeres. Anterior and posterior margins of subpetiolar process subparallel; posteroventral angle of subpetiolar process acute. Holotype measurements. HL 052; HW 0.43; SL 0.28; WL 0.58; PrL 0.24; PrW 0.28; PetNL 0.16; PetW 0.24; PetH 0.19; PetL 0.17; T1L 0.26; T1W 0.36; TL 1.53; CI 82; SI 65; PetI 150; PetHI 111; PetWI 141. Worker measurements (n=4). HL 0.51–0.55; HW 0.42–0.47; SL 0.24–0.28; WL 0.52 –0.64; PrL 0.24–0.26; PrW 0.27–0.32; PetNL 0.14–0.16; PetW 0.24–0.26; PetH 0.18–0.19; PetL 0.14–0.18; T1L 0.22–0.26; T1W 0.34– 0.36; TL 1.44–1.55; CI 80–88; SI 52–66; PetI 100–171; PetHI 100–135; PetWI 133–171. Queen measurements (n=1). HL 0.58; HW 0.51; SL 0.31; WL 0.81; PrL 0.13; PrW 0.29; PetNL 0.14; PetW 0.25; PetH 0.24; PetL 0.19; T1L 0.27; T1W 0.40; TL 1.85; CI 88; SI 61; PetI 178; PetHI 126; PetWI 131. Worker description. Body dark yellow. Integument covered by deep and dense punctate sculpturing; space between the punctures of lateral portion of frons corresponding to one or half puncture diameter in full-face view. Head longer than broad; length of median tooth of mandible shorter than basal tooth; basal margin of mandible straight. Clypeus slightly projecting medially. Eleven antennomeres; antennomeres 1–4 separated by deep constrictions. Eyes placed immediately posterior to the head midlength. Pronotum slightly broader than long. Distance between the propodeal spiracle and the bulla of the metapleural gland corresponding to one spiracular diameter; distance between the propodeal spiracle and the propodeal dorsum corresponding to two spiracular diameters. Petiolar node as high as long in lateral view. Subpetiolar process with anterior and posterior margins subparallel or parallel; posterior margin concave; posteroventral angle acute. Queen. Like workers, with the expected morphology of Prionopelta queens. Male. Unknown. Etymology. The name refers to the demonym for those born in the state of Jalisco, Guadalajara, Mexico, from where this species is known. From the Náhuatl term tapatiotl. The specific epithet should be considered feminine and indeclinable in accordance to Article 31.2.3 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature. Distribution (Fig. 35D). Prionopelta tapatia is only known from western Mexico. Comments. Among the Neotropical Prionopelta with eleven antennomeres, this species is different from P. punctulata by the shape of clypeus and the basal margins of mandibles and from P. menininha by the presence of a discrete projection of the cuticle in the posteroventral angle of the subpetiolar process. One worker showed ocellar vestiges. Natural history. The species is mainly known from leaf litter samples collected in disturbed areas, at elevations greater than 900m. Additional material examined (2 specimens). MEXICO: Jalisco: 3 km N Tequila, 20. 91051 -103.82709, ± 50m, 1040m, 28.vi.2017, J. Longino cols., #9859-s, disturbed riparian veg., ex sifted leaf litter, CASENT0644589 (1 worker) [CASC]; 14km SW de Hostotipaquillo, 21.012°N 104.179°W, 990m, 4-10.viii.2013, G. Melo & B.B. Rosa cols. (1 queen, without metasoma) [DZUP]., Published as part of Ladino, Natalia & Feitosa, Rodrigo M., 2020, Taxonomic revision of the genus Prionopelta Mayr, 1866 (Formicidae: Amblyoponinae) for the Neotropical region, pp. 201-249 in Zootaxa 4821 (2) on pages 244-245, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4821.2.1, http://zenodo.org/record/4398380

The ant genus Prionopelta Mayr, 1866 is revised for the Neotropics. Morphological traits combined with geographical data led to the recognition of eight species, four of them described here as new: Prionopelta dubia sp. n., Prionopelta menininha sp. n., Prionopelta minuta sp. n., and Prionopelta tapatia sp. n. Prionopelta marthae Forel, 1909 is proposed as a new junior synonym of Prionopelta antillana Forel, 1909. External morphological descriptions of the worker caste for all species are provided, as well as for some of the males and queens, mostly described here for the first time. Identification keys for all known castes, distribution maps and high-resolution illustrations are supplied for all species.

Prionopelta dubia sp. n. Figures 18–21, 35A Holotype worker: BOLIVIA: Beni: Est. Biol. Beni, 42km, E. San Borja, 210m, 14°48’S 66°23’W, 5.ix.1987, P.S. Ward col., #9085-20, sifted litter (leaf mold, rotten wood, trop. moist forest), #9085-1, DZUP549772 (1 specimen) [DZUP]. Paratype workers. same data as holotype, DZUP549773 (1 specimen) [DZUP]; DZUP549774 (1 specimen) [DZUP]; DZUP759775 (1 specimen) [DZUP]; same data, CASENT0863190 (1 specimen) [CASC]; DZUP549776 (1 specimen) [UCDC]; DZUP549777 (1 specimen) [USNM]. Diagnosis. Basal and median tooth of mandible mainly subequal in length; clypeus evenly rounded; lateral portion of frons with shallow and dense sculpturing; head with dense pubescence in dorsal-oblique view. Twelve antennomeres. Holotype measurements. HL 0.53; HW 0.44; SL 0.24; WL 0.63; PrL 0.23; PrW 0.29; PetNL 0.13; PetW 0.23; PetH 0.17; PetL 0.16; T1L 0.24; T1W 0.35; TL 1.56; CI 83; SI 54; PetI 176; PetHI 106; PetWI 143. Worker measurements (n=13). HL 0.46–0.58; HW 0.41–0.50; SL 0.24–0.28; WL 0.56 –0.70; PrL 0.22–0.27; PrW 0.26–0.34; PetNL 0.13–0.18; PetW 0.20–0.26; PetH 0.16–0.20; PetL 0.15–0.18; T1L 0.19–0.25; T1W 0.30– 0.40; TL 1.38–1.70; CI 81–91; SI 50–63; PetI 142–185; PetHI 88–120; PetWI 122–160. Queen measurements (n=9). HL 0.64–0.65; HW 0.54–0.55; SL 0.31–0.35; WL 0.90–0.92; PrL 0.18–0.20; PrW 0.31–0.47; PetNL 0.17–0.19; PetW 0.30–0.35; PetH 0.21–0.22; PetL 0.21–0.22; T1L 0.25–0.27; T1W 0.44–0.47; TL 1,79–2.00; CI 83–85; SI 56–64; PetI 157–205; PetHI 95–104; PetWI 142–159. Male measurements (n=5). HL 0.42–0.44; HW 0.38–0.46; SL 0.11–0.12; WL 0.73–0.77; PrL 0.04–0.08; PrW 0.15–0.26; PetNL 0.10–0.12; PetW 0.17–0.18; PetH 0.14–0.16; PetL 0.15–0.16; T1L 0.24–0.25; T1W 0.29–0.30; TL 1.54–1.60; CI 90–106; SI 23–31; PetI 141–180; PetHI 93–100; PetWI 113–120. Worker description. Body yellow to light brown. Integument covered by dense punctulate sculpturing; space between the punctures of lateral portion of frons corresponding to one or two puncture diameters in full-face view. Pubescence abundant over the entire body. Head longer than broad; length of basal tooth and median tooth of mandible mainly subequal; basal margin of mandible straight. Clypeus evenly rounded anteriorly. Twelve antennomeres; antennomeres 1–4 separated by deep constrictions. Eye placed immediately posterior to the head midlength. Pronotum slightly broader than long. Distance between the propodeal spiracle and the bulla of the metapleural gland corresponding to half the diameter of the spiracle; distance between the propodeal spiracle and the propodeal dorsum corresponding to three spiracular diameters. Petiolar node as long as high. Subpetiolar process forming a relatively broad lobe, with its anterior and posterior margins subparallel; posterior margin concave; posteroventral angle obtuse. Queen. Distance between the propodeal spiracle and the propodeal dorsum corresponding to two spiracular diameters. Male. Anterior clypeal margin and frontoclypeal suture medially rounded. Distance between the propodeal spiracle and the bulla of the metapleural gland corresponding to half or less than half spiracular diameter; distance between the propodeal spiracle and the propodeal dorsum corresponding to two spiracular diameters. Etymology. The name refers to the authors’ doubts regarding the identity of this species in several stages of this work, and its historical misinterpretation in scientific collections and repositories, where the individuals have been mainly confused with P. amabilis. From Latin dubium = doubt. Distribution (Fig. 35A). Prionopelta dubia is known from southwestern Mexico to southeastern Brazil. Comments. Besides its diagnostic characters, the species is recognized by its abundant pilosity. This species is commonly confused with P. amabilis. This may be related to the fact that the holotype of P. amabilis had not been photographed nor deposited in an open database of images. These issues were resolved at the end of 2019. Despite a thorough description of P. amabilis by Borgmeier (1949), Prionopelta comprises ants with subtle differences among its species, and consequently, the probability of misinterpretation is greater. Here, we were able to establish the true identify of P. amabilis and to recognize differences between it and P. dubia. Prionopelta dubia and P. amabilis are broadly sympatric. They are similar in being shallowly punctate on the head dorsum and having a broad subpetiolar process. Prionopelta dubia has more closely-spaced puncta, the clypeus is evenly rounded, and the basal and median tooth of mandible tend to be similar in length. Prionopelta amabilis has more widely-spaced puncta, the clypeus slightly projecting medially, and the basal tooth of the mandible is distinctly larger than the median tooth. In Central America and some localities of Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia, P. dubia may be more conspicuously pubescent and posterior portions of the head may be more infuscated. These traits are gradually less visible in specimens occurring through southern Central American countries and almost imperceptible in the specimens from the remaining countries of South America. Natural history. The species is mainly known from litter samples collected in tropical forests. It is reported at elevations of 50–1500m. Longino (unpublished notes available on AntWeb.org) observed pleometrotic colony founding, with pairs of queens in small chambers under rotting bark. Field notes by Lívia Pires do Prado and Rogério Rosa da Silva (#LPP_304), suggest that workers move very slowly and that the colonies inhabit fallen logs with a high degree of decomposition. Additional material examined (211 specimens). BELIZE: Cayo District: Chiquibul, N.P., Doyle’s Delight, Dry Creek Area, 16°29’23”N 89°02’45”W, 950m, 20-27.viii.2007, P.W. Kovarik col., CASENT0614798 (1 queen) [JTLC]. BRAZIL: Acre: Mâncio Lima, Serra do Divisor, Barreiro, 07°27’9.22”S 73°39’58.24”W, 260m, 15- 18.xi.2016, R.M. Feitosa, T.S. Silva & A.C. Ferreira cols. (2 workers, 1 queen) [DZUP]. Porto Water, 08°15’31.2”S 72°46’37.1”W, 05.ii-17.iv.1997, J. Caldwell col., E. hahnelii (1 worker, 1 queen) [CEPEC]. Amazonas: 19.ix.1962, W.L. Brown col., Benjamin Constant AM, (6 workers, 1 queen) [MZSP]. Balbina, 19.iv-02.v.1988, N. Degalier col., armadilha de interceptação, isca de fezes humana (1 queen) [MPEG]. Manaus, 23.i.1994, A.G. Casimiro col., #4832, Rs 3304, (1 worker) [CEPEC]; same data, Rio Branco Rd. Km 4 from fork of Amaz. Rte 1, -7.730534 -61.832043, 22.viii.1962, W.L. Brown col., W-292, berlesate, rainforest, CASENT0172305 (1 worker) [ANIC]. Pres. Figueiredo, I. PE Inchado, L. Balbina, 1°54’45’’S 59°29’75’’W, 13.xii.1994, Queiroz col., arm. de solo, mata primaria (1 queen) [DZUP]. Bahia: Aritaguá, 23.xi.1998, J.R.M. Santos col., cacaual (1 worker) [CEPEC]; (2 workers) [DZUP]. Barrolândia, CEPLAC, 16°06’S 39°17’W, 06-07.iv.2002, L.S. Ramos & S. Lacau cols., 66 (4 workers) [DZUP]. CEPEC, 14.ii.1991, B. Santos col., #4377 (1 worker) [MZSP]. Ibicaraí, km 41, 14537s 0392901w, 21.xi.1998, Santos J.R.M. col. (2 workers, 1 queen) [CEPEC]. Iguaí, 14°38’38’’S 40°09’12’’W, 907m, 2011-2012, Santos R. e cols., Winkler, submontane, ombrophylous (1 worker) [CEPEC]. Ilhéus, Cacaual, v.1998, Carmo, J.C.S. col. (2 workers) [DZUP]; same data, 27.vii.2000, S. Lacau col. (1 worker, 1 queen, 1 male) [CEPEC]; same data, 16.i.1991, B. Santos col., #4377 (1 queen) [DZUP]. CEPLAC, Curso Poneromorfas, 14°46’27.6’’S 39°13’16.7’’W, 05.v.2014, Silvestre et al. cols. (1 worker) [UFGD]. Itati, Serra das Piabas, 13°57’26”S 40°01’51”W, 800m, 16-19.xi.2004, Lacau L. & Jahyny, J. cols. (4 workers) [CEPEC]. Jussari, Anuri, 152530S 0392719W, 27.v.1999, Santos, J.R.M. col., 66 (1 queen) [CEPEC]. Uruçuca, 12.viii.1991, Santos B. col., #4463, Emarc _Q. 5 (2 workers) [DZUP]. Goiás: Cavalcante, Serra da Contenda, 13°29’42.4’’S 47°33’01.6’’W, 15.x.2004, Silva R.R. & Dietz B.H. cols., Winkler, mata ciliar (4 workers) [MZSP]. Pará: Ald. Araçu, Igar. Urupi-Uma, 4.v.1963, B. Malkin col. (2 workers) [MZSP]. Belém, 13.xi.1974, D. Dias col., #13282 (2 workers) [MPEG]; same data, 12-19.viii.1962, K. Lenko col. (3 workers) [MZSP]; same data, Sampaio (1 worker) [MZSP]. Curionópolis, Projeto Antas do Norte, T1, 2.60577S 48.86185W, 06.iv.2017, M.G.T. Tavares col., Winkler (1 worker) [MPEG]. Fazenda Velha, 04.xii.1974, MF Torres (1 worker) [MPEG]; (1 worker) [DZUP]. Curionópolis, Projeto Antas do Norte, T1, 06°13’47.1’’S 49°45’20.5’’W, 5-7.viii.2017, M.G.T. Tavares col., Winkler (1 worker) [MPEG]. Itaituba, Mina do Palito S2, 06°19’39.8’’S 55°47’31.5’’W, 02.ii.2018, Silva R.R. & Prado L.P. cols., #LPP_304, busca ativa (1 worker) [MPEG]. Marituba, 1°22’S 48°20’W, 19.x.2004, Santos, J.R.M. col., 21 (1 queen) [DZUP]. Mocombo, 06.ii.1979, M.F. Torres col. (1 queen) [MPEG]. Paragominas, 2°59’S 47°21’W, i-vii.2011, R. Solar col., baited pitfall, UFV LABECOL n° 000157 (1 queen) [UFV]. Tailândia, Agropalma Área 4, 2.61787S 48.87190W, 18.vi.2016, R.R. Silva & E.L. Siqueira cols., Winkler (1 worker) [MPEG]; same data, Dendê 2, 2.60577S 48.86185W, 20.vi.2016, R.R. Silva & E.L. Siqueira cols., Winkler (1 worker) [MPEG]. Paraná: Rondon, iv.1965, F. Plaummann col., #4767 (3 workers, 1 queen) [MZSP]. Rondônia: Porto Velho, Área Abunã, 9°38’05.6”S 65°27’11.2”W, 17-27.vii.2013, Mazão G.R. & Probst R.S. cols. (1 worker) [DZUP]. São Paulo: Caraguatatuba, Res. Flor. 40m, 22.v-1.vi.1962, Exp. Dep. Zool. (1 worker) [MZSP]; same data, vii.1965 (1 worker) [MZSP]. Miracatu, Serra do Mar, Clube Pesca & Cia, 04-07.ix.2014, Feitosa R.M. col., Winkler (1 worker) [MZSP]. Picinguaba, P.E. Serra do Mar, 23°20’10”S 44°50’15.3”W, 30.iii- 04.iv.2001, Brandão C.R.F. e Eq. cols. Winkler (6 workers) [DZUP]; (3 workers) [MZSP]. São Vicente, Pq. Estadual do Xixová-Japui, 23°59’S 46°23’W, 18.iv.2011, Rodolfo da Silva Probst col., Winkler (2 workers) [DZUP]; (1 worker) [MZSP]; same data, 23.iv.2011 (4 workers) [MZSP]; same data, 25.vii.2011, Winkler (1 worker) [MZSP]. Tocantins: Araguaína, 01.iv.2016, W.H. Brandão & V.E. Sandoval cols., ANTWEB1032566 (1 queen) [UFV]. COLOMBIA : Amazonas: 7km N. Letícia, 10-25.ii.1972, S.J. Peck col., en hojarasca CASENT0810431 (1 worker) [MIZA]. Isla Gorgona: M.L. Baena col., GAcd13 (1 worker) [MZSP]; same data, Gacd 21 (1 queen) [MZSP]. COSTA RICA: Alajuela: Bijagua, 10.71400 -85.03600 ± 2km, 1000m, 15-19.viii.2010, M. Pollet & A. De Braekeleer cols., pan trap, wet forest, CR/HE/PR/BPT01-05, CASENT0636122 (1 queen) [JTLC]. Río Peñas Blancas, 10.302N 34.706W, 940m, 04.vii.1984, J. Longino col., within day coll. no 1-stray, LACM ENT 142626 (1 worker) [JTLC]; same data, 10°18’N 84°45’W, 950m, 02.ii.1994, #3528, INBIOCRI001282968 (1 queen) [JTLC]. Limón: Res. Biol. Hitoy-Cerere, 9.65238 -83.02206 ± 25m, 670m, 11.vi.2015, ADMAC, #Wm-E-02-1-06, ex. sifted leaf litter, tropical rainforest, CASENT0637017 (1 worker) [JTLC]; same data, 9.65727 -83.02598 ± 25m, 530m, #Wm-E-02-1-03, CASENT0632087 (1 queen) [DZUP]. Río Pacuare, 10°01’N 83°31’W, 200m, 20.ii.1994, J. Longino col., #3576, INBIOCRI001282736 (1 worker, 1 male) [JTLC]. Puntarenas: 13km SSW Pto. Jimenez, 8.40667 -83.32833 ± 200m, 200m, 10.iii.2008, J. Longino col., #6209-38, ex. sifted leaf litter, tropical rainforest, CASENT0636083 (1 worker) [JTLC]; CASENT0636084 (1 worker) [DZUP]. Península de Osa, Corcovado, Rio Pavo, 16.vii.1982, J. Longino col., #1200, LACM ENT 142624 (1 queen) [JTLC]. ECUADOR: Cuyabeno: 12.x- 05.xi.1994, J.P. Caldwell col., #10750 (1 worker) [CEPEC]. Morona: Santiago, Los Tayos, 3.viii.1976, Tjite de Vries col. (1 queen) [MZSP]; (1 queen) [DZUP]. Napo: Limoncocha, 00°24’S 76°36’W, 20.vii.1973, C.W. Rettenmeyer col., #5300 (1 worker) [MZSP]; same data, 280m, 13.viii.1973, Marian Rettenmeyer, #68 (1 worker) [MZSP]; (1 worker) [DZUP]. FRENCH GUIANA: Kaw mountains, 04°38’N 52°18’W, ix.2008, S. Groc & A. Dejean cols., #5628, Winkler, VK3-Sous-le-vent, VK3 Tr 1 W47, (1 worker, 1 queen) [DZUP]. Nouragues Natural Reserve, 4.08085 -52.68255, 200m, 28.viii.2018, C.R. Cardenas col., CRCI80828-02, Winkler (7 workers) [DZUP]; same data, 04°08’N 52°64’W, ix.2009, S. Groc & al cols., #5636, Winkler, FL 2- Liana for., FL2 Tr 2 W28 (1 worker) [CEPEC]. Petit-Saut: 02-28.xi.2001, S. Lacau & G. Fleck cols. (3 workers) [DZUP]; same data, xii.1997, S. Lacau col. (3 workers, 1 queen) [CEPEC]. Saint-Laurent do Maroni: Itoupé, 3.022305 -53.08321, 800m, 09.xi.2014, Orivel J. & Fichaux M. cols., IT14-0149, pitfall, Plateau, 72h, leaf litter, ECOFOG-IT14-0149-09 (1 worker) [ECOFOG]; same data, Mitaraka, 2.227554 -54.45371, 335m, 01.iii.2015, Orivel J. & Peticlerc F. cols., MI15-0244, Winkler,pente, 48h, leaf litter,ECOFOG-MI15-0244-52(1 queen)[ECOFOG]. Saül: Belvédère de Saül, 03°37’22’’N 53°12’57’’W, 326m, 14.iii.2011, SEAG team leg., V05 (3 queens) [DZUP]. Limonade, 3.573583 -53.19847, 192m, 15.x.2013, Orivel J. & Donald J. cols., SL13-1022, pitfall, Bas fond, 72h, leaf litter, ECOFOG-SL13-1022-11 (1 worker) [ECOFOG]. Mont Chauve, 17.iv.1997, R. Garrouste col. (1 queen) [CEPEC]. GUATEMALA: Zacapa: 2km SE La Unión, 14.95384 -89.27631 ± 50m, 1430m, 12.v.2009, LLAMA cols., #Wa-B-03-2-27, ex. sifted leaf litter, treefall gap in cloud forest, CASENT0612530 (1 queen) [JTLC]; same data, 3.5km SE La Unión, 14.95000 -89.26667, 1500m, 04.vi.1991, R.S. Anderson col., #91-050, CASENT0603554 (1 worker) [JTLC]. HONDURAS: Comayagua: PN Cerro Azul Meambar, 14.86613 -87.89735, 940m, 21.v.2010, LLAMA cols., Wm-C-04-1-03, MaxiWinkler, ex. sifted leaf litter, montane rainforest, CASENT0617263 (1 worker) [JTLC]. MEXICO: Chiapas: 13.7km NW Metzabok, 17.190517 -91.73748, 540m, 14.vii.2007, J. Longino col., JTL6046-s, Winkler, wet forest, JTLC000010047 (1 worker) [JTLC]. 12mi NW Ocozocoautla, 1200ft, 04-05.ix.1973, A. Newton col., CASENT0810416 (1 queen) [MIZA]. Playón de la Gloria, 16.16014°N 90.90187°W, 160m, 25.vi.2008, B. Broyles col., #0014, mature wet forest, CASENT0610361 (1 queen) [JTLC]; CASENT0610360 (1 worker) [DZUP]. Oaxaca: Uluapan, 4km NE Ayautla 18.06188 -96.64635 ± 50m, 640m, 11.vi.2016, J. Longino col., #9624.1, mature wet forest, in dead wood, CASENT0631829 (1 worker) [JTLC]. Veracruz: Est. Biol. Los Tuxtlas, vii.2001, A. Pezon col. (1 worker) [DZUP]; same data, 18.58038 -95.08110 ± 20m, 420m, 30.v.2016, ADMAC, #Wm-F-01-1-05, ex. sifted leaf litter, tropical rainforest, CASENT0640286 (1 worker) [JTLC]; CASENT0640281 (1 queen) [DZUP]; same data, 18.58461 -95.07375 ± 20m, 150m, 31.v.2016, J. Longino col., #9558.2, mature wet forest, in dead wood, CASENT0631748 (1 worker) [JTLC]; CASENT0631749 (1 male) [DZUP]; same data, 10km Sontecomapan, 18.58333 -95.08333, 200m, 20.iii.1985, P.S. Ward col., PSW07333 -12, sifted litter (leaf mold, rotten wood), CASENT0260460 (3 workers) [PSWC]. NICARAGUA: Chontales: 2.5km NE Santo Domingo, 12.27678 -85.06368 ± 50m, 730m, 21.iv.2011, J. Longino col., #JTL7381, wet forest, under large stone, CASENT0619329 (1 worker) [JTLC]; CASENT0619921 (1 queen) [JTLC]; same data, 12.27641 -85.06350 ± 100m, JTL7365-s, Winkler, wet forest, CASENT0619986 (1 worker) [JTLC]. Jinotega: Cerro Saslaya, 13.77199 -84.99771 ± 20m, 710m, 08.v.2011, LLAMA cols., #Wm-D-02-1-09, ex. sifted leaf litter, montane wet forest, CASENT0628800 (1 queen) [JTLC]; CASENT0628797 (1 worker) [JTLC]. PANAMA: Darién: Reserva Chucantí, 8.78803 -78.45035 ± 50m 720m, 20.i.2015, J. Longino col., #9071, ex. sifted leaf litter, moist forest, CASENT0633570 (1 worker) [JTLC]. PERU: Cusco: Est. Biol. Villa Carmen, -12.894740° -71.403850, 520m, 5-15.viii.2013, Ant Course 2013, successional vegetation, crops and pasture (2 workers) [DZUP]; (1 worker) [NHMB]; same data, 29.vii.2013, B.L. Fisher & F.A. Esteves cols., BLF31444, successional vegetation, crops and pasture, ex. soil 10cm below ground, CASENT0370886 (1 worker) [CASC]; same data, -12.90244 -71.40767, 590m, 06-08.viii.2013, B.L. Fisher & F.A. Esteves cols., BLF31553, bamboo forest, secondary vegetation, sifted litter, miscellaneous collection, not a nest series, CASENT0374727 (1 worker) [CASC]; CASENT0375939 (1 worker) [CASC]. Quincemil, km 8, 13°13’03”S 70°43’40”W, 633m, 20.viii-1.ix.2012, Cavichioli R., Santos & Takiya cols., Malaise (2 males) [DZUP]. Divisoria: 02.iv.1988, SJS16 (3 workers) [CEPEC]. Madre de Dios: Puerto Maldonado, Sachavacayoc Centre, 12°51’15.4”S 69°22’15.9”W, 209m, 19-31.vii.2012, Ant Course (2 workers) [DZUP]; same data, R. Feitosa col. (5 workers) [DZUP]. Reserva Nacional Tambopata, Sachavacayoc, 12°51’21’’S 69°21’43’’W, 210m, 19-31.vii.2012, J. Chaúl col., manual, Neotropical Ant Course, UFV LABECOL n° 000041 (1 worker) [UFV]; same data, UFV LABECOL n°000045 (1 worker) [UFV]. San Martín: Davidcillo, 20km NNE Tarapoto, 6°15’S 76°15’W, 220m 21.viii.1986, P.S.Ward col., #8684-1, sifted litter (leaf mold, rotten wood), rainforest, PSW10127 -2, CASENT0863188 (2 workers) [PSWC]. SURINAME: La Poulle: viii.1959, I.v.d. Drift col., 18.xivcd.13, (3 workers) [DZUP]; (3 workers) [MZSP]. VENEZUELA: Aragua: Est. Biol. Rancho Grande, 10.34756°N 67.68787°W, 1140m, 11.x.2008, J. Longino col., #6439-s, ex. sifted leaf litter, montane wet forest, JTLC000015024 (1 worker) [JTLC]. PN Henri Pittier, Paso Portachuelo, 10.34761°N 67.68780°W, 1100m, 11.viii.2008, C. Rabeling col., 080811-02 (1 queen) [ASU]. Henri Pittier National Park, Valle Santa Maria, 4.8km SW Cumboto, 10.36667 -67.82667, 860m, 03.ix.2003, E. Rodríguez, A. Grotto & J. Lattke cols., JEL2832, La Esperanza, Bosque Semi decíduo, ex. hojarasca, CASENT0178695 (1 worker) [MIZA]. Paso Portachuelo, Published as part of Ladino, Natalia & Feitosa, Rodrigo M., 2020, Taxonomic revision of the genus Prionopelta Mayr, 1866 (Formicidae: Amblyoponinae) for the Neotropical region, pp. 201-249 in Zootaxa 4821 (2) on pages 226-230, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4821.2.1, http://zenodo.org/record/4398380, {"references":["Borgmeier, T. (1949) Formigas novas ou pouco conhecidas de Costa Rica e da Argentina (Hymenoptera, Formicidae). Revista Brasileira de Biologia, 9, 201 - 210."]}

Orientador: Prof. Dr. Rodrigo M. Feitosa Dissertação (mestrado) - Universidade Federal do Paraná, Setor de Ciências Biológicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas (Entomologia). Defesa : Curitiba, 22/02/2019 Inclui referências: p.62-65 Área de concentração: Entomologia Resumo: Amblyoponinae é uma subfamília de formigas com distribuição mundial e relações internas incertas. Entre seus gêneros, Prionopelta inclui formigas pequenas com hábito criptobiótico e predador, reconhecidas pela presença de uma lamela denticulada na margem anterior do clípeo, mandíbulas tridentadas curtas e adjacentes ao clípeo quando fechadas e uma ampla união do pecíolo com o gáster. Prionopelta está representada por 22 espécies válidas no mundo, das quais cinco ocorrem na região Neotropical: P. amabilis, P. antillana, P. marthae, P. modesta e P. punctulata. Contudo, não existem trabalhos taxonômicos abrangentes para Prionopelta nos Neotrópicos. Com base em caraterísticas morfológicas e dados geográficos de espécimes provenientes de diferentes instituições, apresento a primeira proposta taxonômica abrangente de delimitação das espécies neotropicais do gênero. Oito espécies são reconhecidas neste trabalho, com P. sp. n. A, P. sp. n. B, e P. sp. n. C descritas aqui pela primeira vez. Apresentam-se descrições e redescrições detalhadas da morfologia externa, uma chave de identificação, mapas de distribuição e ilustrações em alta resolução para todas as espécies neotropicais. Consequentemente, este trabalho amplia o conhecimento taxonômico do gênero e da subfamília Amblyoponinae na região Neotropical Abstract: Amblyoponinae is an ant subfamily with worldwide distribution and uncertain internal relationships. Among its genera, Prionopelta includes small ants with cryptobiotic and predatory habits, recognized by the presence of a denticulate lamella in the anterior margin of clypeus, short tridentate mandibles adjacent to clypeus when closed and a broad union of petiole and gaster. Prionopelta is represented by 22 valid species in the world, of which five occur in the Neotropical region: P. amabilis, P. antillana, P. marthae, P. modesta and P. punctulata. However, no comprehensive taxonomic works have been conducted for Prionopelta in the Neotropics. Based on morphological characteristics and geographic data of specimens from different institutions, I present the first comprehensive taxonomic proposal of delimitation of Neotropical species of the genus. Eight species are recognized in this work, with P. sp. n. A, P. sp. n. B, e P. sp. n. C described here for the first time. Detailed descriptions and redescriptions of external morphology, an identification key, distribution maps and high resolution illustrations for all Neotropical species are presented. Consequently, this work expands the taxonomic knowledge of the genus and the subfamily Amblyoponinae in the Neotropical region