Tricolored Honeypot Ant - Myrmecocystus melliger

Meet Myrmecocystus melliger, a true masterpiece among honeypot ants! Queens, measuring an impressive 11-13mm, and workers, ranging from 5-8mm, dazzle with their fiery crimson-brown heads, rich brown-black thoraxes, and striking jet-black abdomens. The stars of the colony are the repletes—unique workers with swollen, nectar-filled abdomens—that glisten like living jewels, transforming the nest into a breathtaking display of natural brilliance. With its vibrant hues and mesmerizing behavior, Myrmecocystus melliger isn’t just another species; it’s a living masterpiece. For ant enthusiasts, this stunning species is the perfect blend of beauty, elegance, and fascination, making it a true standout in the world of honeypot ants!

Myrmecocystus melliger is a dazzling marvel among honeypot ants, offering a thrilling yet rewarding challenge for intermediate to advanced ant keepers. This stunning species thrives in carefully designed setups, requiring nests with tall vertical spaces to support the dramatic growth of its repletes, transforming the colony into a living display of brilliance. Their impressive climbing abilities demand diligent barrier maintenance, while relocating them requires delicate handling to protect their fragile, nectar-filled repletes. Though they don’t sting, their use of formic acid as a defense adds an extra layer of intrigue to their behavior. For enthusiasts seeking a vibrant, dynamic, and truly mesmerizing addition to their collection, Myrmecocystus melliger is the perfect blend of beauty and complexity, making it a standout choice in the world of ant-keeping.

Caring for Myrmecocystus melliger involves creating a carefully controlled environment to support their health and growth. Maintain a temperature range of 80-87°F, ideally 85°F, using a heat mat or cable regulated by a thermostat to ensure consistent warmth and provide a heat gradient for natural temperature regulation. A balanced diet of insect protein and sweet liquids, such as nectar or sugar water, is essential for steady colony development. Proper humidity management is crucial, with nests designed to offer varying moisture levels so the ants can select their preferred conditions. Tall ceilings in the nest are necessary to accommodate replete expansion, and a sandy substrate is vital for cocoon formation. When these needs are met, Myrmecocystus melliger thrives, rewarding keepers with their fascinating behavior and dynamic colony growth.

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

States available for purchase:

Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, and Utah.

• 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