Myrmecocystus testaceus

• Queen: 11–13 mm
• Workers: 4–8 mm

Color: Myrmecocystus testaceus is known for its light yellow to orange-brown body, giving it a testaceous (brick-like or clay-colored) appearance. Both workers and queens often have a uniform, matte texture, setting them apart from the darker Myrmecocystus species.

• Insects (e.g., fruit flies, crickets, roaches – dead or live)
• Syrup (4:1 mix of water to sugar or honey)
• Fruits (apple, grape, banana, melon)
• Vegetables (e.g., cucumber, carrot – in small quantities)
• Protein jelly or nectar jelly
• Cooked, unsalted protein (chicken, shrimp, egg white)

• Humidity:
 Arena: 40–60%
 Nest: 50–70%

• Temperature:
 Arena: 24–32 °C
 Nest: 23–27 °C

This is a warm-climate, arid-adapted species. Avoid excess moisture, especially in organic nesting setups.

As with other Myrmecocystus species, M. testaceus develops repletes—specialized workers that store nectar and sugary fluids in their distended abdomens. These honey pot ants serve as living storage units, hanging from the ceiling of the nest and sustaining the colony during periods of drought or food scarcity.

This species is slightly less aggressive than some of its relatives and tends to be less prone to escape, making it a good candidate for mid-level keepers wanting to experience the beauty of honey pot behavior without overly difficult maintenance.

Preferred nest types:
• Acrylic nests with hydration chambers
• Plaster or gypsum-based nests
• YTONG (aerated concrete)
• Sealed cork nests (in dry conditions with ventilation)