Pogonomyrmex rugosus is a monogynous ant species with colony sizes of up to 10-15 thousand individuals. They have a medium development rate and their queen is 10-12mm in size while workers are 5-7mm. They have a dark brown color with a dark orange abdomen and feed on food insects and seeds. They prefer a humidity level of 40-60% in the arena and 50-60% in the nest.