Christine's Honeypot Ant - Myrmecocystus christineae

Meet Myrmecocystus christinae, an extraordinary golden honeypot ant that is a rare find in the ant-keeping world. Its striking golden hue and large, distinctive eyes give this species a delicate yet captivating appearance. Worker ants typically measure 2-4mm, with queens reaching 9-10mm in size. While most colonies of Myrmecocystus christinae are traditionally monogamous, with only one queen, recent discoveries by our team at Antlantis, alongside Eukarya, have observed multiple queens peacefully cohabiting within a single chamber. This intriguing behavior has prompted ongoing studies to explore whether this species can sustain polygyny over time.

Myrmecocystus christinae is a rare and captivating honeypot ant species in the ant-keeping hobby. Their small size allows for extended periods before nest upgrades are needed and requires fewer resources to sustain, even at full colony size. Like all honeypots, one of the key requirements for these ants is a nest with vertical ceiling space to allow for proper replete formation, a crucial part of their survival and development. Instead of stinging, they defend themselves by spraying formic acid, formic acid is not threatening to humans unless sprayed in a cut, in that scenario it can cause a slight burning sensation and is nothing threatening to one's health. However, with all this said they are far from easy to care for, as they require intermediate to advanced care due to their specific environmental needs and fragile nature, particularly in the early stages of founding.

Caring for Myrmecocystus christinae requires close attention to their specific environmental needs for optimal growth and replete development. Their smaller size allows them to remain in their initial nest longer, needing fewer resources, which can be convenient for keepers managing space and food. However, they are best suited for experienced ant keepers, as honeypot ants can be sensitive during the founding stages, and improper care can lead to colony collapse. Maintaining a temperature range of 80-85°F, with 80°F being ideal, is crucial for their development, easily achieved using a heat mat or cable controlled by a thermostat. A heat gradient is beneficial to help regulate the ants' body temperature and promote healthy brood growth. Humidity is another critical factor, and a well-constructed nest should offer a gradient so the ants can select their preferred moisture levels. Myrmecocystus christinae thrives on a diet of insect protein and sugary liquids like nectar or sugar water, which are essential for their growth. These ants are also adept climbers, so regular barrier checks are necessary to prevent escapes. Additionally, their nests should have vertical ceiling space for replete formation and sand for cocoon construction. Due to their specific needs and sensitivity, Myrmecocystus christinae can be a rewarding yet challenging species, making them a striking and engaging choice for ant enthusiasts ready for the responsibility.

For more information on how to take care of your ant, visit our Care Guides.

States available for purchase:

California

• Shipping Days: We dispatch live ant orders from Monday to Wednesday to avoid weekend delays, ensuring your ants receive prompt and safe delivery.
• Express Delivery Services: All live ant orders are sent via reliable express carriers that guarantee delivery within 1-3 business days.
• Eligible Delivery Areas: We ship only to regions where overnight or two-day shipping options are available. This minimizes transit time and reduces stress on the ants.
• Specialized Packaging: Our packaging includes insulated materials, along with heat or cold packs as necessary, to maintain a stable and comfortable environment for the ants during transit.

For more information on shipping, visit our Shipping Policy Page.

Live Arrival Guarantee: If your ants arrive dead, we will provide a refund or replacement as long as you notify us within 24 hours of receiving them and provide clear photos showing their condition. Your satisfaction and the well-being of your ants are our top priority!

Two-Week Survival Window: If your colony doesn't thrive within two weeks despite following our care instructions, we'll replace it with a product of equal value.

Please note: Shipping costs for replacements are the responsibility of the buyer