Pheidole anticua

紹介

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 .