Genus Manica Jurine

All four North American species of this Holarctic genus occur in California, where they are confined to montane and high desert locations. Detailed notes on the distribution and nesting habits of the species are given by Wheeler and Wheeler (1970a). One species, M. parasitica Creighton, is known only from peculiar shiny workers collected in the nests of M. bradleyi (Wheeler), of which it is presumed to be a parasite, but its taxonomic status remains unclear.

Species identification: keys in Wheeler and Wheeler (1986g). Additional references: Creighton (1934), Fales et al. (1972), Went et al. (1972), Wheeler and Wheeler (1968b, 1970a), Wheeler (1914e).