Dolichoderus elegans

Introduction

Dolichoderus elegans is an ant species known only from fossil specimens preserved in Upper Eocene amber from Central and Eastern Europe, dating back approximately 34-56 million years . This species belongs to the subfamily Dolichoderinae, which is characterized by ants that lack a functional stinger and instead rely on chemical defenses . The genus Dolichoderus produces a distinctive vinegar-like odor when disturbed as a defense mechanism. Workers in this genus typically have a smooth, glossy body. The lack of modern occurrence records suggests this species may be extinct, as no living specimens have been documented in the scientific literature.