Myrmica kirbzii

Jerdon, T. C., 1851, A catalogue of the species of ants found in southern India., Madras Journal of Literature and Science 17, pp. 103-127 : 114

20. Myrmica kirbzii Sykes?

I regret that I have mislaid my copy of the Entomological Transactions in which this Ant and several others were described, but the similarity of the nest and its general description led me to conclude that the species procured by me is identical with Colonel Sykes' one.

Is very closely allied to the two last, has its thorax larger, rough, and much ridged; its thoracic spines larger; first abdominal pedicle somewhat diamond shaped, second heart shaped; the abdomen strongly ridged longitudinally; head thorax and legs dark marroon; abdomen dark brown. Length 7 - 48 th of an inch.

I have found this species chiefly in the elevated forests of the Wynaad. I cannot say that I have met it below the ghauts. It forms a considerable nest of some papyraceous materials, usually of an oval form, and placed round a small branch which supports it. It is very numerous in individuals, countless swarms issuing from it on being disturbed and boldly attacking the assailant both with teeth and sting. It feeds on honey of flowers and other vegetable secretions.