Opisthopsis haddoni

(Strobe ants)

Description

These soil-dwelling ants have very large eyes at the top corners of the head, and have excellent vision. The name “strobe ant” comes from their abrupt movements – if one waves a hand about 15 cm over several foragers they will re-orient jerkily as they assess the threat. The ants lack stings and spray formic acid on enemies; they are harmless to humans, and are probably scavengers. Figured are specimens seen at Hann River, photo courtesy of Alex Wild, http://www.myrmecos.net./ants/