Nests, worker population, and reproductive status of workers, in the giant queenless ponerine antDinoponera Roger(Hymenoptera Formicidae)

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Abstract
We present data on nest architecture, associated fauna, items found in the refuse chambers, populations and other field observations for three Dinoponera species (D. australis, D. lucida, and D. quadriceps). For D. australis we present also an analysis of nest distribution, and the results of dissections of all adult females from 37 colonies. Although queenless, all the colonies of D. australis studied have a monogynous structure, with only one mated worker with fully developed ovaries at a time. We discuss these observations in the light of the evolution of queenlessness in ants.