Giant ants from the Paleogene of Denmark with a discussion of the fossil history and early evolution of ants (Hymenoptera : Formicidae)

Pachycondyla rebekkae sp. nov. (Formicidae, Ponerinae) is described from th e Fur and Olst Formations (transitional between Paleocene and Eocene, Denma rk). About 95 complete or fragmentary gyne specimens and one almost complet e mare specimen were examined, revealing characters which permit classifica tion and placement of the fossil species in the phylogenetic system of exta nt Formicidae. The palaeoecology and taphonomy of the insect fauna of the F ur and Olst Formations are discussed. Finally, the significance of the new species is discussed in light of the fossil history and early evolution of ants. (C) 1999 The Linnean Society of London.