Density and distribution of nests of Mycetophylax simplex (Emery) (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) in areas with mobile dunes on the northern coast of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Abstract

*[This study aimed to contribute to the knowledge of an Attini in dunes ecosystems through the description of density & spatial distribution of Mycetophylax simplex (Emery, 1887) nests in a strip of mobile dunes in the Praia Grande beach, Torres, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. In 4 plots of 2,500-m2 each, the density of nests were found 20, 209, 284, & 324 nests, with average densities of 0.01-nests/m2, 0.09, 0.11, & 0.13 nests/m2, respectively. The nests were found near to the vegetation, showing clumped distribution. The density & distribution pattern of the nests seem to be related to the availability of nesting places & foraging resources.]