Giant Golden Honeypot Ant - Myrmecocystus mexicanus-02 (CA)

Meet Myrmecocystus mexicanus-02, a radiant wonder among honeypot ants, celebrated for its mesmerizing golden hues that make it truly one-of-a-kind. Unlike its sister species, mexicanus-01, whose workers showcase a rich caramel tone, the workers of mexicanus-02 gleam with a vibrant gold that enhances the colony's stunning appearance. Queens, reaching an impressive 11-13mm, lead colonies of workers ranging from 5mm to 10mm, with the largest transforming into iconic repletes—nectar-filled marvels that shimmer like liquid sunlight. These glistening repletes are vital to the colony's survival and a breathtaking focal point of any collection. Myrmecocystus mexicanus-02 is more than an ant—it’s a captivating blend of beauty, biology, and challenge, perfect for enthusiasts seeking something truly extraordinary.

Caring for Myrmecocystus mexicanus-02 is both a rewarding and intricate endeavor, ideal for intermediate to advanced ant keepers. These stunning ants thrive in thoughtfully designed nests with plenty of vertical space to accommodate their unique repletes, which serve as living nectar reservoirs. Their exceptional climbing abilities mean barrier maintenance must be consistent to ensure containment, and relocating the colony requires a delicate touch to safeguard the fragile repletes. While they use formic acid for defense, it is harmless to humans and causes only mild discomfort if it comes into contact with a cut. Successfully keeping Myrmecocystus mexicanus-02 calls for patience and precision, but the chance to witness their mesmerizing beauty and fascinating colony dynamics makes every effort worthwhile.

Caring for Myrmecocystus mexicanus-02 is an incredibly rewarding endeavor, showcasing the full potential of this stunning species when their specific needs are met. Maintain a stable temperature between 83-90°F, ideally around 85°F, using a heat mat or cable paired with a thermostat to ensure consistent warmth and a gradient for natural temperature regulation. Their diet should include a mix of insect protein and sweet liquids like nectar or sugar water, essential for supporting their vibrant colony growth. Proper humidity is vital, so their nest must provide a gradient of moisture levels to let the ants find their preferred conditions. Nests with tall ceilings are necessary to accommodate their impressive repletes as they expand with nectar, while a sandy substrate supports cocoon development. With the right care, Myrmecocystus mexicanus-02 will captivate you with its radiant beauty and fascinating behavior, making it an unforgettable highlight in any ant keeper’s collection.

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

States available for purchase:

Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, 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