A new species complex in the genus Camponotus Mayr, 1861 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), with the description of a new species

Orthonotomyrmex Ashmead, 1906 is one of the most morphologically distinct subgenera in the genus Camponotus Mayr, 1861 with a marginated propodeum, nodiform petiole and punctate sculpturing covering most of the body. Here, we propose a new species complex native to Southeast Asia, the Camponotus selene – complex. We also propose the elevation of Camponotus obtusatus (Emery, 1895) as a valid species, the synonymisation of C. lasiselene syn. nov. with C. obtusatus and describe a new species, Camponotus orthogonius sp. nov. from Hong Kong SAR.

The type series was collected within multiple neighbouring twigs from a singular fallen tree suggesting a polydomic colony structure. Keys to the known species of the selene – complex are provided for both minor and major workers. We also provide new distribution data for Camponotus obtusatus stat. nov. and Camponotus siamensis Jaitrong & Jeenthong, 2022 from Fujan Province, China and Laos, respectively.

The proposal of the new selene – complex serves to facilitate future revisions Orthonotomyrmex when more Afrotropical specimens are available to better diagnose the subgenus. The discovery of C. orthogonius sp. nov., alongside newly – reported range extensions, reinforces the potential of further arboreal ant species discoveries in Southeast Asia.