Abstract
The genus
is one of the most species-rich and widespread groups of ants. Despite their often-high local abundance and important ecological interactions, the taxonomy of the genus is fragmentary and in great need of modern revisionary studies. As a first step towards a revision for the Arabian fauna of
, a review of all known species with synoptic species accounts is provided. Seventeen species are recognized and illustrated from the Arabian Peninsula, of which two new species are described:
Sharaf & Hita Garcia,
from the Dhofar Governorate, Oman, and
Sharaf & Hita Garcia,
from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) based on the worker caste.
is easily separated from the remainder of the Arabian
fauna due to its complete lack of propodeal spines, slit-shaped propodeal spiracles, and its distinct bicoloration, whereas
is readily distinguished by its unlobed postpetiolar dorsum. Furthermore, new country records are presented:
Forel for the KSA and Yemen, and
Forel and
Forel for the KSA
for Qatar, whereas
Forel is excluded from the Arabian fauna. In addition, on the basis of morphological examination of original type material,
Forel is proposed as junior synonym of
Mayr, and
is elevated to species rank
Furthermore, a new identification key for the Arabian species is provided, as well as distribution maps for all species.