Phylogeny of Aphaenogaster species (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) reconstructed with morphological and mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 data

The genus Aphaenogaster is comprised of 227 species worldwide, with 25 currently described from North America. Ecologically, they are important as predators of other arthropods, and may be useful in controlling some forest pests; they are also important to many plants as seed dispersal agents. Many species live in dead wood and promote decomposition and nutrient recycling. A complex of sibling species within the genus, including three common Northeastern species, has been difficult to separate morphologically. This study tests the limits of Aphaenogaster species boundaries through phylogenetic analysis using morphological and DNA characters. Preliminary parsimonious and Bayesian analyses indicate that current species groups are not taxonomically accurate. Revisions within the genus are indicated.