Ants of the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve

Study Extent

Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve

Sampling

A total of 20 pitfalls were installed in five quadrats per study site (4 pitfalls per quadrat). Each pitfall was then placed 2.5 meters from the corner, and one meter towards the inside of the quadrat. The pitfall traps were plastic cups, 9.5 cm deep with a diameter of 6.5 cm at the top, containing c. 75 ml of ethylene glycol. The pitfall trapping survey was conducted from late February to March 1999 for a period of one month. For each quadrat, two samples were processed at random, yielding a total of 100 pitfall traps. Twice the number of pitfall traps was installed to counteract losses and breakage of traps. After the installation of pitfall traps, samples were collected after 31 days. On return to the laboratory, saltwater extractions were used to separate organic matter from inorganic matter and the resultant liquid was cleaned. Samples were stored in 80 % ethanol. Ants were separated from other invertebrates and sorted to morphospecies based on external morphological characters. A reference collection for the reserve, housed at the Iziko South African Museum, Cape Town, was used for identifying species, and voucher specimens from each site were mounted and added to this collection. In cases where large numbers of ants of one species were found, the contents of the pitfalls were sub-sampled for that species, from which the estimated total number was calculated.

Quality Control

Data were validated by engaging with experts where necessary and using various field guides; GPS coordinates obtained; GBIF Taxonomic matching tool utilised

Method steps

1. See above

Ant species from South Africa, sampled within the Cape Peninsular National Park, in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve Section. Currently called the Table Mountain National Park, , Ant species from South Africa, sampled within the Cape Peninsular National Park, in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve Section. Currently called the Table Mountain National Park,

1. Formicidae
   common name: Ant rank: family

Cape Peninsular National Park, in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve Section. Currently called the Table Mountain National Park Bounding coordinates: N: -34.262601 Bounding coordinates: S: -34.346778 Bounding coordinates: W: 18.384246 Bounding coordinates: E: 18.479527