DNA barcoding of <i>Messor</i> ants of Bulgaria with insights into their taxonomic diversity.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Despite ongoing efforts to catalogue European ant species, studies focusing on the genetic diversity of Balkan ants remain limited. An integrative approach combining morphology, genetics, ecology and biogeography is preferable for accurately identifying species and resolving taxonomic uncertainties, particularly amongst challenging insect taxa, such as the ants in the genus Messor (Hymenoptera, Formicidae).

New information

In this study, we analyse ants of the genus Messor using DNA barcode sequences, with a particular focus on the Bulgarian fauna. A total of 85 COI sequences were examined, including 84 from Messor specimens and one from Aphaenogaster, which was used as an outgroup. Of these, 81 sequences were newly generated, while fou

SUBMITTER: Lapeva-Gjonova A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12606073 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature