Species of pheidole westwood (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) established in new zealand

Abstract

Three species of the genus Pheidole Westwood are known to be established in New Zealand: P. megacephala (Fab.), P. rugosula Forel, and P. vigilans (Smith). All appear to be restricted to the northernmost regions of Auckland and Northland, except P. rugosula, which is also found in the Waikato area. An illustrated key is provided to major and minor workers of these three species. The subspecies P. variabilis rugosula Forel is raised to full species status after examination of type material. © The Royal Society of New Zealand 1997.