Paul Williams
Today I learned there was an ant (Podomyrma adelaidae) with a common name of the ‘spotted muscleman tree ant’. I spotted it while on holiday.
Something @futurebird might like to know.
#bushland #ants
Oct 9 at 5:04amWeb
Show threadmyrmepropagandistOct 9

@buddhawilliams

They do have little “biceps” but shouldn’t it be “musclewoman tree ant” 🤣

Show threadmyrmepropagandistOct 9

@buddhawilliams

Are you certain this isn’t iridomyrmex?

Show threadPaul WilliamsOct 9
@futurebird no, I’m not any sort of specialist in this field. I use an app by iNaturalist called Seek that will give an ID based on camera images using some sort of AI (machine learning?? LLM?? I don’t know). It is pretty accurate on the things I know (mammals and birds), but I know insect species can be difficult. I was just more surprised about the name than the accuracy of the ID.
Show threadmyrmepropagandistOct 9

@buddhawilliams

Those apps are "ok" but they have their limitations.

When you see Podomyrma adelaidae you'll know why it has the name "muscleman" (though I still think "musclewoman" makes more sense, all worker ants are female...)

It literally has bulges on its exoskeleton... and it's strong, these do indicate more powerful legs.

Iridomyrmex can be spotted for their distinctive flat heads and their purple hues.

Here is the muscle woman herself and you can even see her spots!

Show threadPaul WilliamsOct 9

@futurebird comparing your image with the couple of other images I have of ‘my’ ant, I agree the app has probably mischaracterised this one. Thanks for the clarification!

Still love the name though and I will support any campaign to change it to muscle woman!

Show threadBen RosengartOct 9
@buddhawilliams @futurebird before you spotted it it was just a muscleman tree ant