Systematic Revision and Phylogeny of the Neotropical Ant Genus Linepithema

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In this project funded by the Americas Program of the Office of International Science and Engineering, Philip S. Ward and Alexander Wild will provide a taxonomic revision and phylogenetic analysis of the Neotropical ant genus Linepithema Mayr 1866. This project is a collaborative effort with John A. Kochalka at the Museo Nacional de Historia Natural in Paraguay. It involves field work in the center of diversity for Linepithema in southern South America, museum visits to examine important myrmecological collections and type specimens in South America and Europe, and development of DNA sequence data to be used in phylogenetic reconstruction.Linepithema is an extremely important invasive ant, and the Argentine ant L. humile is highly successful and one of the most damaging invasive pest ants worldwide. A proper taxonomic treatment of this group is required for its correct identification and potential management through bio-control. The results of the project will be posted on the Internet and will be accessible to a very broad audience. On a broader scale, this study should help provide a more rigorous understanding of the nature of invasive species as a whole. The field work abroad will provide an international experience that will enhance a graduate student's training.