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Pygidial glands in the Myrmicine ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)

1978; Springer Nature; Volume: 25; Issue: 3 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1007/bf02224746

1420-9098

Charles Kugler,

Plant and animal studies

Fifty-two species, representing 39 genera of the ant subfamily Myrmicinae were surveyed for the presence of «pygidial glands» hetween the 6th and 7th abdominal terga. In 7 genera the actual glandular reservoirs were seen intact after dissection. In an additional 7 genera, reservoirs were not preserved, but pygidial sculpture suggests their presence in the living animal. Depending on the species, the reservoirs and their orifices are paired or single. The gland cells were preserved in 2 species, and it seems to be that in both species the cells connect independently to the reservoir. Also in these 2 species, no muscle layer could be seen on the reservoir. Apparently associated with the pygidial glands is an emargination and/or sculpturation of the anterior margin of the pygidium. There is evidence of pygidial glands scattered throughout the Myrmicinae, however they seem to be most concentrated and more likely to be especially well developed in one branch of the subfamily. Within that branch they seem most likely to occur in genera with reduced stings. Possible homology of the pygidial glands with the dolichoderine anal glands is discussed.