Liometopum Mayr

Ward, P. S., 2005, A synoptic review of the ants of California (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)., Zootaxa 936, pp. 1-68 : 27

Genus Liometopum Mayr

This genus is represented in California by two species, both widespread. These ants have populous colonies that inhabit the trunks of large living trees, especially those of oak and pine. L. occidentale Emery tends to be associated with deciduous trees, while L. luctuosum Wheeler is found most frequently in conifers. The workers forage in large files and are generalist scavengers and predators, as well as active tenders of aphids and scale insects.

Species identification: key in Wheeler and Wheeler (1986g). Additional references: Disney (1982), Gulmahamad (1995), Kistner et al. (2002), Shapley (1920), Snelling and George (1979), Wheeler (1905h).