Chapter 2 Classification and Origins Summary

The Ants are composed of a single family, the Formicidae, within the order Hymenoptera. The Formicidae are sub-divided into eleven subfamilies, 297 genera, and about 8,800 species. Probably 100 to 350 genera and 20,000 or more species remain unknown to science. The regional distribution of ant species is summarized in a table, and numerous figures illustrate general ant anatomy used as taxonomic keys.

The subfamilies and genera of fossil and living species are summarized in a table, and references to applicable monographs are noted. Regional studies extant in the literature are summarized in a table, including references. The process of taxonomic classification of ants is described in general review.

A concise overview of the origin of the ants is offered in generally chronological order. Close relatives to ants are briefly described and illustrated. Diagnostic taxonomy of ants, including primitive features, is summarized...