Classification
Scientific Name: Paraponera clavata
Common Name: Bullet Ant
The common name refers to the extremely painful sting, which in fact feels as if you have been shot by a gun.
Domain- Eukaryota
Organisms classified as a Eukaryote possess a true nucleus.
Kingdom- Animalia
The Bullet Ant is classified under this kingdom due to the fact that it is heterotrophic, lacks a cell wall, and is multicellular. Their many cells have developed over time to perform certain tasks within the body. If you would like to learn more about organisms within this Kingdom, please visit the following websites about: the Devil Firefish, the Black Mamba, the Eurasian Water Shrew, Enhydrina schistosa, Ceratotherium simun, the Hooded Pitohui, Irukandji Jellyfish, the Blue-Ringed Octopus, and Solenodon paradoxus.
Phylum- Arthropoda
Arthropods have appendages that are paired and jointed together. They also possess an exoskeleton that is made up of chitin that aids in protection. If you would like to learn more about organisms within this Phylum please visit the following websites about: the Six-Eyed Sand Spider, the Arizona Bark Scorpion, and Scolopendra gigantea.
Class- Insecta
The Bullet Ant is classified as an Insect because it has three pairs of jointed appendages, an exoskeleton, antennae, compound eyes, and they also have segmented bodies.
Order- Hymenoptera
Classified as having two pairs of wings and well developed mandibles.
Family- Formicidae
Members of this family are known for having a metapleural gland that produces phenyacetic acid which aids in fighting against bacteria and certain fungi.
Genus- Paraponera
Members of this genus live in humid lowland rainforests.
Species-Paraponera clavata
Known for their excruciating sting and very large size, the Bullet Ant is located throughout the wet Neotropics.
Next check out the Habitat page which describes the environment unique to the Bullet Ant, or return Home.