Myrmica ruginodis
This record describes Myrmica ruginodis (species). Recorded family: Formicidae. Recorded order: Hymenoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Myrmica ruginodis can be distinguished from Myrmica rubra by the length of pair of spines projecting from the rear of the main part of the thorax. In Myrmica rugodinis these spines are relatively long - as long as the distance between their tips. Myrmica rubra is the other common red ant but this has short spines protruding from the petiole. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Forms nests in tree trunks and rotting wood, under stones etc. Myrmica ruginodis is one of the most common of the Myrmica , occurring throughout Britain and especially in the north.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Formicidae
- Genus
- Myrmica
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Woodland and other sheltered sites.
Seasonal Activity
Mating flights July and August.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Forms nests in tree trunks and rotting wood, under stones etc.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Myrmica ruginodis
About Flies: the wider group
Order-level background for Hymenoptera, the group containing Myrmica ruginodis. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Hymenoptera includes over 150,000 described species of ants, bees, wasps, and sawflies. Earth harbors approximately 20 quadrillion (20×10^15) ants, with a combined biomass of ~12 megatons of dry carbon - exceeding the combined biomass of all wild birds and mammals (PNAS, 2022).
Ecological role of the group
About 35% of the world's food crops depend on animal pollinators. The chocolate industry, valued at over $100 billion, depends on pollinating flies and midges. Ants are the dominant soil engineers in most terrestrial ecosystems, turning more soil than earthworms in many habitats.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Pollinators contribute $235-577 billion worth of annual global food production (FAO). In the U.S., bee pollination alone benefits crops valued at $18 billion annually, and honey bees are responsible for $5.4 billion in agricultural productivity. Between April 2023-2024, 55.1% of managed honey bee colonies were lost. The U.S. bee population dropped from 5 million to 2.5 million.
Recorded sources for this group: FAO, USDA, EPA, PNAS (2022), US Fish & Wildlife Service. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Myrmica ruginodis (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Myrmica ruginodis
What is Myrmica ruginodis?
Myrmica ruginodis is a species in the family Formicidae, within the order Hymenoptera.
How big is Myrmica ruginodis?
of pair of spines projecting from the rear of the main part of the thorax. In
Where is Myrmica ruginodis found?
Habitat: Woodland and other sheltered sites.
When is Myrmica ruginodis active?
Myrmica ruginodis: seasonal activity - Mating flights July and August..
What is the life cycle of a Myrmica ruginodis?
Forms nests in tree trunks and rotting wood, under stones etc.