Katherine and Julian's Honeypot Ant - Myrmecocystus kathjuli

Meet Myrmecocystus kathjuli, a true wonder among honeypot ants, celebrated for its stunning beauty and extraordinary adaptability. The queen, a commanding presence at 11-12mm, boasts a striking reddish-brown head, a deep brown-black thorax, and a glowing amber-brown abdomen that radiates regal elegance. The workers, though smaller at 6mm, are no less impressive, with vivid red heads and thoraxes set against jet-black abdomens with a hint of gold on the abdomen, creating a bold and captivating contrast that makes the colony a visual masterpiece. The crown jewel of this species, however, is its repletes—living nectar reservoirs whose dramatically engorged, golden-toned abdomens shimmer like treasure within the nest, offering a mesmerizing spectacle of nature’s ingenuity. Myrmecocystus kathjuli is the epitome of resilience and beauty, thriving effortlessly in harsh environments and offering a captivating, one-of-a-kind experience for ant enthusiasts who seek the extraordinary.

Myrmecocystus kathjuli, while more robust than some other honeypot ants, is best suited for keepers with intermediate to advanced experience due to its specific care demands. Their colonies thrive in nests designed with sufficient vertical space to support the growth and maintenance of their iconic repletes. These ants are exceptional climbers, so secure enclosures and frequent barrier checks are critical to preventing escapes. Relocating the colony presents additional challenges, as the delicate repletes often require meticulous handling to avoid damage. Although they do not sting, they use formic acid as a defense mechanism, adding to their unique traits. Caring for Myrmecocystus kathjuli demands precision and attention to detail, making them an exciting yet challenging choice for seasoned ant keepers.

To promote the healthy growth of Myrmecocystus kathjuli, it’s important to maintain a stable temperature range of 80-85°F, ideally around 83°F, using a thermostat-controlled heat mat or cable. Establishing a heat gradient within the habitat allows the ants to move to their preferred temperature zones. Their nutritional needs should be met with a balanced diet of insect protein and nectar, such as sugar water, to ensure robust colony development. Proper humidity control is also vital; the nest should provide a moisture gradient, enabling the ants to locate their ideal humidity levels. The enclosure should include ample vertical space to accommodate replete expansion and a sandy substrate to support cocoon formation. By addressing these specific environmental and dietary needs, you can create an optimal habitat for Myrmecocystus kathjuli to flourish.

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