Pogonomyrmex maricopa

Colony Type: Monogyny

Colony Size: Up to 20 000 workers

Development Speed: medium

• Queen: 11-12 mm
• Workers: 5-9mm

Despite their size differences, they all share a common red-brown color, albeit with varying intensities.

• Food insects (such as cockroaches and crickets) dead, or live if colony is big
• Syrup (a mixture of water and honey or sugar, with a ratio of 4/3 water:1)
• Fruits and vegetables
• Jelly
• Cooked chicken without salt, shrimps
• Honey
• Seeds

Don’t forget to check out our food products to ensure a well-balanced diet for your colony!

• Humidity: Arena: 40-60%, Nest: 50-60%
• Temperature: Arena: 22-30 °C, Nest: 22-26 °C

Pogonomyrmex maricopa is known for its formidable sting, considered to be one of the most powerful among all ant species. This feature serves as a defense mechanism for the colony, allowing them to protect their precious queen and resources from potential threats. As fascinating as it is, it’s important to exercise caution and respect when observing or working with these ants.

Pogonomyrmex maricopa requires a suitable nest for breeding, and several materials satisfy their needs:

• Acrylic
• Cork
• Plaster
• Aerated concrete

These materials provide a suitable environment where the ants can establish their chambers and carry out their daily activities. It’s crucial to maintain a humidity gradient within the nest, as some chambers must remain dry while others require a higher level of moisture. This allows the ants to regulate their internal humidity and ensure the optimal conditions for the growth of the colony.

Pogonomyrmex maricopa, the red-brown powerhouse, is a captivating species that showcases the marvels of nature’s colony dynamics. With their monogynous colony type and impressive colony size of up to 20,000 individuals, they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of ants. Their diverse diet of insects and seeds ensures their nutritional well-being, while the ideal humidity and temperature within their habitat create an optimal environment for growth and thriving. With their powerful sting and unique nesting requirements, Pogonomyrmex maricopa truly stands out among its ant counterparts. So, if you’re seeking a captivating ant species to observe and learn from, look no further than Pogonomyrmex maricopa – a true marvel of nature.