Scientists discover a new ant genus in Brazil — and its anatomy breaks all the rules

Brazilian scientists have discovered a new genus of ant in the Amazon rainforest — and it’s unlike anything seen before. Its translucent body and vertically positioned mandibles set it apart from all known ant groups.

Photo: bmcecol.biomedcentral.com by author, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/

Муравьи

This strange insect was collected in a remote northern region and may represent an ancient evolutionary lineage that retained “primitive” features, including a body plan not typical of modern social ants.

According to this report from Pravda.ru, this find could reshape how we understand the evolution of insect societies — particularly how complex caste systems may have evolved from simpler forms.

How this ant differs from known species

Common myths about tropical insects

• Myth: Most Amazon insect species are already known.
  Fact: Over 80% remain undescribed by science.
• Myth: “Primitive” means less evolved.
  Fact: Simpler adaptations can be just as successful and ancient.

Why this discovery matters

• It sheds light on the early evolution of insect societies.
• It may reveal ancestral morphologies long lost in other lineages.
• It could inspire biomimicry in robotics or materials design.

Every new species is a window into Earth’s evolutionary past — and a reminder that the Amazon still hides secrets that could change science forever.