How many species could it be? NC-clustering as a complementary method to the alpha-taxonomy of <i>Camponotus</i> (<i>Myrmcocladoecus</i>) <i>latangulus</i> Roger, 1863 (Formicidae: Formicinae)

The genus <i>Camponotus</i> exhibits remarkable morphological diversity, having minor and major workers with wide allometric variation. This study focuses on the subgenus <i>Myrmocladoecus</i>, particularly <i>Camponotus latangulus</i>, characterised by significant morphological variation. Using linear discriminant analysis (LDA), we explore whether this variation indicates a complex of similar species or the allometric variation of a single species. We took 15 linear measurements from 86 individuals of <i>C. latangulus</i> from 50 series. Statistical analyses were performed using R software to evaluate clustering based on these measurements. The results do not support cryptic species; instead, the specimens form a single cluster. The high morphological variability among <i>Camponotus</i> workers suggests the variation observed in <i>C. latangulus</i> may be linked to task division, colony age, and potential epigenetic influences. This study corroborates the utility of NC-clustering as an accessible method for taxonomists, facilitating the identification of possible cryptic species or the limits in allometric variation. Additionally, it highlights the significance of biological collections in preserving biodiversity and advancing research on arboreal ants. NC-clustering proves effective in morphological analyses, confirming this species as highly variable. Future research should further explore the biology of <i>C. latangulus</i> and its interactions with environmental factors to improve understanding of its morphological variation.