Described by Forel in 1907, the species is endemic to Australia and introduced to New Zealand, and it nests in soil or under stones and logs.

[4][5] This species of ant maintains small colony sizes and it "prefers protein food.

[7] The mandibles aka the insect's mouthparts are made up of 4-5 denticles (tooth-like projections) and contain 4-5 proper teeth that help them to crush and hold food and other items.

[10] Moving down the body to the first segment, called the propodeum, it is shorter than the back of the face, so is set lower.

[7] The ant's attraction to port areas has also seen it being discovered in Napier, Blenheim, Whangarei, Nelson and also Mt Maunganui.

[9] They prefer to settle in areas of dry forest as they nest in various sections such as under rocks, within the soils or in rotten logs.

[6] The main condition is that a fertile queen is transported as new workers being introduced to an area is not enough to start a colony.

[6] At present, the main dispersal route is using human commerce, such as pot plants, previously discussed or by transport of timber or rubbish.

[9] They are considered a pest as they are attracted to many sugary foods, particularly at home dwellings or orchards where there is damaged fruit.

[6] Darwin's Ant is also attracted to honeydew as a sugary food source and interacts with honeydew-secreting insects particularly those found on boneseed plants (Chrysanthemoides monilifera).

[7] In the winter time, the smaller colonies of ant combine to become larger and to aid survival in the harsh climate, only to separate again during the summertime.