Pheidole cordata

Introduction

Pheidole cordata is an extinct ant species originally described from Baltic amber dating to the Late Eocene (34-48 million years ago) . The original specimen is lost, but a neotype was designated in 2024 from East African copal approximately 700 years old . The species belongs to the Pheidole megacephala species group, identifiable by the distinctive ventral convexity of the postpetiolar sternum and well-developed inner hypostomal teeth . The major workers reportedly had remarkably large, heart-shaped heads larger than the abdomen, with strong triangular mandibles and propodeal spines . However, researchers note there is no strong evidence confirming it actually belongs in the genus Pheidole - it is considered incertae sedis (uncertain placement) in the subfamily Myrmicinae . This species is extinct and no longer exists in the wild or in captivity.