Giant ants from the Paleogene of Denmark with a discussion of the fossil history and early evolution of ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

Pachycondyla rebekkae sp. nov. (Formicidae, Ponerinae) is described from the Fur and Ø1st Formations (transitional between Paleocene and Eocene, Denmark). About 95 complete or fragmentary gyne specimens and one almost complete male specimen were examined, revealing characters which permit classification and placement of the fossil species in the phylogenetic system of extant Formicidae. The palaeoecology and taphonomy of the insect fauna of the Fur and Ø1st Formations are discussed. Finally, the significance of the new species is discussed in light of the fossil history and early evolution of ants.