Pheidole barbata

Queen: 8–9 mm
• Minor workers: 2.5–3 mm
• Major workers (soldiers): 4–5 mm

• Insects: fruit flies, mealworms, waxworms, crickets
• Sugar sources: sugar syrup (3:1 water to honey or sugar), honey, fruit nectar
• Soft fruits: apple, banana, grape
• Protein jelly (ant-safe, especially appreciated during brood growth)
• Scavenger-friendly: actively harvests dead insects — remove excess to avoid mold

Pheidole barbata is a highly structured and active species, known for the striking appearance of its major workers, which function as soldiers. These ants show clear division of labor: minors forage and care for brood, while majors defend the nest and help process food.

They are quick to discover new food sources, and colonies respond rapidly to both sugars and proteins. While not particularly aggressive, they are very efficient and organized.

• Humidity: Arena: 40–60% | Nest: 50–70%
• Temperature: Arena: 22–28 °C | Nest: 24–30 °C
• Diapause: Not required (tropical/subtropical origin), but mild slowdown in cooler months may occur

Pheidole barbata is a fascinating dimorphic species found in warmer regions of southern Europe and the Mediterranean. It builds nests in soil, under stones, or in rotting wood, and thrives in semi-arid to moderately humid conditions.

Their most iconic feature is the presence of major workers (soldiers) — large-headed ants used for defense and seed cracking. This species exhibits clear caste roles, fast colony response, and efficient brood care.

Easy to keep and visually engaging, Pheidole barbata is ideal for hobbyists who want to observe structured social behavior, caste dynamics, and true “worker-soldier” interaction.

They adapt well to acrylic nests, Ytong setups, or natural soil habitats, and are fairly forgiving of minor care fluctuations.