Chelaner antarcticus, also known as the southern ant, is a species of ant endemic to New Zealand. It was first described in 1858 by British entomologist Frederick Smith and has undergone numerous taxonomic revisions. The ant is highly variable in size and colour, which has led scientists to suspect that it is in fact several species. It is widespread throughout New Zealand, even being found in the Kermadec Islands, and has also been observed in the Austral Islands. Colonies can be formed in a wide range of habitats such as native forest, grasslands and horticultural zones. The nest is constructed either under stones or under logs.
From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Is it venomous or poisonous?
We have no record of Southern Ant being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
- Huberia striata
- Solenopsis richteri — considered venomous
- Temnothorax pergandei
- Solenopsis gayi — considered venomous
- Chelaner rubriceps
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Formicidae
- Genus
- Chelaner
- Species
- Chelaner antarcticus
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