Myrmecia nigrocincta, commonly known as the Jumper Ant or Jumping Jack, is a formidable ant species native to eastern Australia. Known for their large size, striking black and red coloration, and impressive jumping ability, these ants are a fascinating species to observe. They are aggressive when threatened and possess a powerful venomous sting, making them both captivating and dangerous. Myrmecia nigrocincta forages primarily in trees, where they assist in pollination.
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Myrmecia nigrocincta
Habitat & Distribution
Myrmecia nigrocincta is found in the temperate bushlands and dry forests of eastern Australia, including states like Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. They prefer warm climates, thriving in elevations ranging from 80 to 1,220 meters. Colonies are often located in sandy or semi-dry forests, and these ants are highly adaptable to a variety of habitats, particularly coastal plains.Behavior & Ecology
M. nigrocincta is distinguished by its ability to jump up to 10 cm, which they use to catch prey or escape danger. They are aggressive hunters, utilizing their large, sickle-shaped mandibles and venomous sting to subdue insects. Unlike many ground-foraging ants, they prefer to forage in trees. Workers are equipped with excellent eyesight, enabling precise navigation and predation. These ants also play a significant role in pollination.Colony Structure & Reproduction
Myrmecia nigrocincta colonies typically house several hundred workers and are of the monogynous type, meaning they have a single queen. Interestingly, workers possess the gamergates gene, allowing them to reproduce in the absence of a queen. The queen measures 17–19 mm, while workers range from 13–16 mm. Colonies are known for their longevity, with workers living over a year.Appearance
These ants are easily recognized by their striking orange-red and black coloration. The gaster, head, and legs are black, while the thorax and petiole are red. Their large size and distinctive color patterns make them one of the more visually striking species in the Myrmecia genus.
