Pogonomyrmex barbatus, commonly known as the Red Harvester Ant, is a striking and well-known species native to arid regions of the United States and Mexico. These ants are renowned for their powerful stings, reddish coloration, and their seed-harvesting behavior. They are a monogynous species that form large, highly active colonies and are best suited for experienced ant keepers due to their aggressiveness, painful sting, and climate requirements.
Pogonomyrmex barbatus
P. barbatus inhabits dry deserts, grasslands, and scrublands, where they build elaborate nests that can extend deep underground. Colonies often exceed 10,000 workers and are among the most dominant seed collectors in their native ecosystems.
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Queen size: approx. 10–12 mm, reddish-orange.
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Worker size: 5–7 mm, with strong mandibles and a reddish body.
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Behavior: Extremely territorial and aggressive toward intruders, including other ants.
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Colony structure: Monogynous. Development is fast under the right conditions.
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Sting: Yes, and it’s one of the most painful in the ant world (rated among the highest on the Schmidt sting pain index).
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Seed storage: These ants are granivorous, creating seed chambers in their nests.
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