Lasius schiefferdeckeri

Introduction

Lasius schiefferdeckeri is an extinct ant species preserved in Baltic amber from the Late Eocene period, approximately 37-42 million years ago. Workers measure 2.5-4.2mm, queens 4-6mm, and males 2.5-3.5mm . This species was one of the most abundant ants in the ancient Baltic amber forests, comprising roughly 15-25% of ant specimens found in amber deposits from different regions . The species closely resembles modern Lasius alienus and Lasius niger, differing mainly in its smaller average size and higher variability in certain measurements . It is considered a likely ancestor or close relative of the modern niger complex that thrives in the Palaearctic region today . This species cannot be kept in captivity as it is only known from fossil specimens preserved in amber. However, its presumed descendant species, particularly Lasius niger and Lasius alienus, remain common across Europe and make excellent subjects for ant keeping.