Giant Bull Ant
Scientific Name: Myrmecia brevinoda
Size: Total Length 26 mm
What does it look like?
The Giant Bull Ant or Bulldog Ant is variable in colour, but generally reddish-brown, with black abdomen, large eyes and powerful, forwards-projecting jaws. It typically has a long body, and is among the longest ants in the world.
Where is it found?
Eastern Qld, NSW and eastern Vic.
What are its habitats & habits?
Found in rainforests, open forests and woodland. Typically nests in soil or under logs and rocks. Abdomen has a stinger that is used to envenom and subdue insect prey, but also feeds on honeydew and other sweet secretions from plants and other insects. Sting painful, and venom has caused severe allergic reactions and fatalities in humans.
This species features in my book A Naturalist’s Guide to the Insects of Australia
