Giant Caramel Honeypot Ant- Myrmecocystus Mexicanus-01 (AZ)

Meet Myrmecocystus mexicanus-01, a stunning gem in the world of honeypot ants and a true marvel of nature. Renowned as one of the largest honeypot species, it enchants with its radiant caramel hues that differentiate it from its golden-toned counterpart, mexicanus-02. The queens, commanding at up to 11-13mm, lead colonies of workers ranging from 5mm to 10mm, with the largest transforming into iconic repletes—living nectar reservoirs that shimmer like jewels. These extraordinary repletes are both vital to the colony's survival and a captivating spectacle, making Myrmecocystus mexicanus-01 a standout choice for any collector. More than just an ant, this species offers a perfect mix of beauty, biology, and challenge, captivating both novice and experienced keepers alike.

Caring for Myrmecocystus mexicanus-01 offers a rewarding but challenging experience, making it best suited for intermediate to advanced ant keepers. These ants thrive in specialized setups with nests that provide ample vertical space for their repletes to expand and store nectar. Due to their impressive climbing abilities, regular maintenance of escape barriers is essential to prevent runaways. Relocating them can also be tricky, as the delicate repletes require careful, hands-on transfer to avoid injury. While they lack a sting, Myrmecocystus mexicanus-01 defends itself by spraying formic acid, adding another layer of intrigue to their care, though its important to note that the formic acid is not dangerous to humans. Ensuring their well-being demands attention to detail and thoughtful handling, but the effort is well worth it for those eager to witness the beauty and behavior of this remarkable species.

Caring for Myrmecocystus mexicanus-01 is a truly rewarding experience, as this impressive species flourishes when given the right environment. To unlock their full potential, maintain a temperature between 83-90°F, with 85°F being the sweet spot, using a heat mat or cable paired with a thermostat to provide stable warmth and a gradient for self-regulation. Fuel their vibrant colony growth with a rich diet of insect protein and sweet nectar, like sugar water, ensuring every member thrives. Proper humidity is essential, so their nest should feature varying moisture levels, allowing the ants to find their perfect comfort zones. High ceilings are a must to accommodate the spectacular repletes as they swell with nectar, and a sandy substrate is crucial for cocoon development. With these elements perfectly balanced, you’ll witness the mesmerizing beauty and dynamic behavior of Myrmecocystus mexicanus-01 in all its golden glory—making it an unforgettable addition to 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