Pogonomyrmex Barbatus

Geographical distribution: This species is found in North and Central America.

Monogynous species with rare cases of pleometrosis to facilitate foundation.

Description of individuals:

Queen: Measures between 10-11 mm, bright red colour on all the body.

Workers: Have a size between 5-9 mm, bright red colour on all the body.

Male: Males measure about 8-9 mm and are red in colour.

Diet: Feeds on honeydew and insects, such as flies, meal worms, mosquitoes and locusts, as well as fruits but also seeds in small quantities, it is a granivorous species just like the messor genus.

Environmental conditions:

Humidity: The hunting area must have a humidity of 30 to 60%, while the nest must maintain a humidity between 50% and 70%.

Temperature: The hunting area must be kept at a temperature of 22 to 28 °C, while the nest must be between 24 and 26 °C.

Hibernation: A diapause is very strongly recommended in view of its geographical distribution, to be carried out 2-3 months at 15-18 degree.

Nest type: Pogonomyrmex Barbatus colonies can be housed in plaster nests, nests with tubes or reconstituted stone nests. The best are nests with bamboo tubes or natural set up.

Description: Pogonomyrmex Barbatus is a very aggressive species, it is dangerous by its bite, indeed its venom is very allergin that can create complications following the bite. Nevertheless, with all possible precautions, this species is a real nugget to look at.

Foundation: The foundation of the colony is done in a claustral way (i.e. without external feeding), and the development of the egg to the worker takes about 40 days, depending on the temperature.

Colony size: A colony of Pogonomyrmex Barbatus can have up to 10,000 individuals.