Scientific illustration of Pheidole anticua ant - showing key identification features including head, thorax, and gaster.

Fossil Pheidole anticua

Non-Parasitic Queen No Gamergate
Sci. Name
Pheidole anticua
Tribe
Attini
Subfamily
Myrmicinae
Author
Casadei-Ferreira <i>et al.</i>, 2019
Fossil
Yes (fossil species)
Distribution
Found in 0 countries

Introduction

Pheidole anticua is an extinct ant species preserved in Dominican amber from the Early Miocene, approximately 16-19 million years ago . It was described in 2019 as the first fossil Pheidole species with a described major worker, belonging to the flavens group characterized by small size, short antennal scapes, and a compact body . The species name means 'old' in Latin, referencing its ancient origin . This species is known only from fossil specimens in amber and has been extinct for millions of years, meaning no living colonies exist and it cannot be kept in captivity .

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Status by country, from Kass et al. 2022 & Wong et al. 2023

Native Invasive Introduced (indoor) Intercepted Unknown
2000 - 2026
Fossil

No caresheet needed

Pheidole anticua is a fossil species and does not require a caresheet.