Pogonomyrmex barbatus

Looking for a visually stunning, high-energy species that builds up fast and thrives in warm conditions? Pogonomyrmex barbatus is the ultimate display species — with vivid colors, bold behavior, and a non-stop work ethic. However, due to its painful sting, we recommend this species only for experienced keepers who know how to safely manage aggressive ants.

Esthetic Ants provides healthy queens and established colonies, always checked for brood and vitality before shipping. We recommend keeping them in a secure, escape-proof setup, and providing proper heating to ensure success.

• Founding method: Claustral (queen does not need feeding during founding).

• Nest type: Best kept in sand-clay setups, gypsum, or naturalistic terraria. Acrylic nests are possible but must have proper substrate for digging and temperature regulation.

• Temperature:

  • Nest: 24–30 °C

  • Outworld: 24–35 °C

• Humidity:

  • Nest: 30–50%

  • Arena: 20–40%

• Hibernation: Not required but may slow down naturally in cooler months.

• Diet:

  • Seeds (grass seed, bird seed, chia, dandelion, etc.) – 80% of their diet.

  • Protein from insects (small crickets, fruit flies) a few times per week.

  • Sugar water or honey water offered occasionally but not essential.

• Danger level: High. This species can deliver extremely painful stings. Handling or disturbing the setup should be minimized. Never open the nest without precautions.

Keep in mind: Pogonomyrmex barbatus is not just an ant — it’s a powerful predator, farmer, and fighter, all rolled into one. For the prepared keeper, it offers one of the most dynamic and visually rewarding antkeeping experiences.