Pogonomyrmex barbatus

Characteristics of Pogonomyrmex barbatus

The Pogonomyrmex barbatus is an American Harvester ant species, native between Mexico and the southern USA. They are active during the day and have a characteristic orangey-brownish colour. A species with a high humidity requirement and medium maintenance difficulty.

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

P. barbatus is a fast-growing species, with an adult queen numbering up to 1000 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 barbatus has a mild hibernating lifestyle. The recommended temperature at this time is 15 degrees Celsius (December – mid-March).

They mainly eat seeds for food. They may also eat honey, sugar water and even insects. Always have a fresh water supply for them. They are not very fast, so they are easy to feed. It is recommended to feed them in the evening.

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, so it is forbidden to touch it. 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 barbatus 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.