Pogonomyrmex maricopa

Characteristics of Pogonomyrmex maricopa

There is no official Hungarian name for the species Pogonomyrmex maricopa. It is an American harvester species, native to the southwestern US coast and south of New Mexico. They are active during the day and have a characteristic orangey-brownish colour. A species with high humidity requirements, difficult to maintain.

Their nuptial flight generally take place in July and August. It is not a native species in Hungary, so it cannot be captured from the wild in our country.

P. maricopa is a very fast-growing species, an adult queen can number up to 10,000 workers. It is a monogynous species, so you can keep one queen in a test tube/formicarium. During their development, cocoon does not appear. From puppy to adult worker, about. 6-8 weeks are needed. The Queen could live up to 25 years.

Pogonomyrmex maricopa has a mild hibernating lifestyle. The recommended temperature at this time is 15 degrees Celsius (December – mid-March).

Their diet consists mainly of seeds and insects. They may also eat honey and sugary water. Always have a fresh water supply for them. It is advisable to feed them in the evening in a circular manner to prevent them from escaping.

Attention!

As this species is not native to Hungary, it is strictly forbidden to release it into the wild!
It has a painful bite and sting, it is known to be the most venomous insect sting in the world, so it is forbidden to touch it. The pain of the sting can last up to 4 hours. For experienced researchers only. No liability for any injury, accident or damage caused by this species. The buyer accepts this and buys with this knowledge. Shipped in a leak-proof test tube, package. Pogonomyrmex maricopa should be kept exclusively in glass tubes and in glass formicarium (they cannot climb on vertical glass surfaces). The displayed product image is protected by copyright, and its use requires permission. The picture is an illustration.

• You can find useful videos about them on our TikTok channel.