in 1970s, scientists discovered several different forms of meats ants, forming iridomyrmex purpureus species group; 3 forms identified (the regular i. purpureus , other 2 forms i. sanguineus , i. viridiaeneus), differing in colour , nest structure. however, there no clear morphological differences among these variations, taxonomic status , evolutionary relationship of these ants remained uncertain. colouration varies ants red head , thorax , blue metallic sheen, yellowish body , bluish-purple gaster. others may darker, appearing metallic-bluish purplish-black. owing different geographical ranges, behaviour , ecology of these forms differentiated, based on examinations multiple forms sympatric. each form had own geographical limit, although regular i. purpureus form common, inhabiting @ least one-third of australian continent. forms may dominant in habitats; example, 1 form may widespread throughout moist environments in dry areas, , others in cool , dry areas. in 1974, i. sanguineus , ...