Camponotites cockerelli

Introduction

Camponotites cockerelli is an extinct ant species known from fossil specimens preserved in the Late Eocene Insect Limestone of the Isle of Wight, UK. This species lived approximately 34 million years ago during a warmer period in Earth's history. Males measured 6-7.5mm in body length, while females had forewings measuring 6.5-8mm. The species belongs to the subfamily Formicinae and was originally described as Leucotaphus cockerelli before being reclassified to Camponotites. These fossilized remains provide valuable information about ant evolution and the prehistoric ecosystems of ancient Europe.