These ants are known as big headed ants as their major workers exhibit huge disproportionate heads. 93 Species Imaged (out of 93 Total) Aphaenogaster occidentalis. This is not a recommended species to keep if you are allergic to their sting. Suitable for beginners due to their docile nature, but care must be taken as they are tiny.
Stings are typically mild, but may cause harm in individuals who are allergic. Despite this, a barrier of talc or fluon is recommended as this is a stinging species.ĭevelopment Time: Approximately 4-6 weeks egg to worker with proper heating. In captivity, they require substrate in their nests due to their inability to climb plastic. occidentalis are found in the arid southwestern US, nesting in sandy soil. Nesting Habits and Escape Prevention: In the wild, P. Heating and Humidity: This species requires a heating cable or mat, and must be kept over 80f. Occasionally colonies will accept solid sugars in the form of fruits. Colonies should be fed at least once a week. However, insect proteins such as fruit flies, mealworms, or superworms can also be beneficial.
If this species is hibernated, they must be kept well above freezing temperatures, around 50-60f.įeeding Requirements: Pogonomyrmex occidentalis’ main diet consists of seeds. Hibernation/Diapause: Although this species can hibernate, it is optional and not recommended. Workers will experience some size variation, but this species does not have a major caste. Queens are slightly larger at 7-8mm in length. Worker/Queen Information: Workers are approximately 4-6 millimeters long, and have a uniform matte orange coloration, with a shiny gaster similar to some Aphaenogaster and Myrmica species. Colonies also grow quickly, able to reach 100+ workers in just a few months. Max Colony Size, Growth Speed, and Structure: Colonies of Pogonomyrmex occidentalis can grow large, reaching 4,000 workers at mature size, and well over 40,000 at their maximum in the wild. Species Difficulty: Easy, an active and aggressive species. Pogonomyrmex occidentalis for sale, Pogonomyrmex occidentalis for saleĮach order includes substrate in the queen/colony’s test tube. If you would like to import this species to California or Florida, you will need a permit at the state level. STATES AVAILABLE FOR SALE: Every state in the Continental US, except California and Florida. Pogonomyrmex occidentalis is the only ant species that has been deregulated by the USDA, meaning it can be transported between states without the need for PPQ 526 permits.
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