Wonderful Dominican amber specimen with three perfectly preserved winged Camponotus ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). 
 
Dominican amber is renowned for its remarkable clarity, vibrant hues, and fascinating inclusions of flora and fauna. Formed from the fossilized resin of the extinct Hymenaea protera tree, this amber dates back approximately 16-25 million years to the Miocene epoch.
 
This extraordinary piece contains three winged Camponotus ants, also known as carpenter ants, which are among the largest and most diverse genera within the Formicidae family. These ants are known for their advanced social structures and their role in breaking down dead and decaying wood, contributing to nutrient cycling within ecosystems. These ants were an integral part of the prehistoric tropical forest, working in harmony with other organisms to maintain the delicate balance of their environment.
 
Winged ants are reproductive members of the colony, called alates, and they take flight during the nuptial flight season to mate and establish new colonies. This makes the presence of winged ants in amber particularly captivating, as it captures a significant moment in the life cycle and social dynamics of these insects.
 
This rare piece of Dominican amber, with its trio of winged Camponotus ants, not only connects you to the ancient world but also serves as a testament to the complex ecological relationships that have shaped life on Earth. A must-have addition to any fossil or natural history collection!
 
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DETAILS
 
Source: Dominican Republic (Cordillera Septentrional)
Age: 25-16 mya
Dimensions: 18mm x 15mm x 11mm
Weight: 1.83g
Inclusions: Winged Camponotus Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) - x3