Description of Diacamma rugosum jerdoni (Insecta: Hymenoptera) male along with two new additions to the myrmecofaunal diversity of Kerala, India

Ants are a diverse and ecologically important family of insects, found in various habitats across the globe. Their presence and interactions within ecosystems play crucial roles in nutrient cycling, soil aeration and as predators or prey in food webs. The study of ant species in specific regions provides insight into local biodiversity and ecological dynamics. Detailed documentation of ant species, including their distribution and behavior, aids in understanding their ecological roles and contributions to ecosystem health. Despite extensive research on ants globally, certain regions and habitats remain under-documented, leading to gaps in knowledge about the presence and diversity of specific ant species. Comprehensive surveys and studies are needed to fill these gaps and update species checklists. The male caste of Diacamma rugosum jerdoni Forel, 1903, is described in this study. Diacamma rugosum jerdoni which was proposed a potential synonym of Diacamma rugosum sculptum (Jerdon, 1851) by Emery in 1911, the type material of which was by then unknown. Hence, it is thought appropriate to abandon the name Diacamma rugosum sculptum (Jerdon, 1851) which is not identifiable with description and have no existing type material. Additionally, for the first time in Kerala, we report the presence of Crematogaster dalyi Forel, 1902, and Leptogenys emiliae Forel, 1902. We furthermore offer a checklist for the genera Crematogaster and Leptogenys. The documentation of these species highlights the rich ant diversity in the region and underscores the importance of continued research.