HYMENOPTERA > APOCRITA | Aculeata > Formicidae > Formicinae > Lasiini (alienus group)

A small, 3-5mm body length, uniformly dark brown species that is very similar to Lasius alienus in respect of general appearance although, perhaps, slightly paler.

They have previously been treated as a single species, but have now been split based on small morphological characteristics and the fact that they have distinctly different habitat preferences. As previously noted, Lasius alienus strongly favours calcareous grass and heathland with chalky substrate, rather than dry, sandy-soiled habitats, such as Dorset's lowland heaths around Poole harbour and on the Isle of Purbeck - areas from where this species has previously been recorded.     

Lasius psammophilus is typically active from May to September, with nuptial flights usually taking place on muggy days in the afternoon during July and August.

The individual featured below is a new dealate queen who looks to be in the process of starting to dig her underground nest, which may eventually be home to thousands of workers. The identity of this ant is considered 'likely' based on general appearance, habitat and elimination of other possible species.