Meranoplus

also known as Shield Ants. Meranoplus is a unique and charismatic myrmicine genus of hairy, slow-moving, and armored ants.

Species of this genus are predominantly ground-nesting and, when disturbed, will display thanatosis enhanced by crypsis, i.e., individuals will accumulate dirt in their pilosity and play dead. With respect to diet, most species are omnivores and facultative granivores, while others, are specialist granivores.