Workers are minute, generally around 2–3 millimetres.
Fine-art photographic collection
Cardiocondyla dalmatica
A minute ant with an extraordinary hidden conflict between males.
About this species
Dalmatian sneaking ant
Cardiocondyla dalmaticaSoudek, 1925
Information reviewed15 July 2026
Cardiocondyla dalmatica is a tiny Mediterranean ant that nests in soil and disturbed habitats. Species of Cardiocondyla are especially notable for wingless fighter males that remain inside the nest and compete directly for access to young queens.
Taxonomy
Animalia · Arthropoda · Insecta · Hymenoptera · Formicidae · Myrmicinae · Crematogastrini · Cardiocondyla
Source checked · checked 2026-07-15
Mediterranean and southeastern EuropeBroad documented localities — not a complete range map.
Mediterranean and southeastern European region, with records extending through human-modified habitats.
Warm open ground, gardens, paths, walls, coastal sites and disturbed soil.
Workers forage unobtrusively close to the nest for tiny food items.
Small arthropods, carrion fragments and sugary liquids.
Small colonies with queens, workers and unusual male forms; wingless males may fight within the nest.
What makes this species remarkable?
Wingless males can remain reproductive for long periods inside the nest.
Male competition occurs within a colony rather than only during aerial mating flights.
The workers are so small that colonies can persist in tiny soil cavities.
Sources and scientific references
More photographs
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