Identification guide to the ant genera of the world /

Although ants generally have a major ecological impact within their habitats, investigation of their roles is often hampered by difficulties in their accurate identification. This book is intended to assist, particularly the nonspecialist, in identifying living ants (family Formicidae) from throughout the world. Dichotomous keys are provided for the 16 subfamilies and 296 genera of living ants. Use of the keys is facilitated by 522 scanning electron photographs of entire ants or close-ups of specific anatomic regions. A checklist, reference list, and glossary enhance the value of this reference. This book will primarily interest graduate students and researchers. Readers desiring in a general introduction to ants are directed to the very readable and exquisitely produced book by Bert H"olldobler and Edward O. Wilson, The Ants (CH, Oct'90). R. E. Lee Jr.; Miami University (OH)