Red Headed Honeypot Ant - Myrmecocystus placodops-02

Meet Myrmecocystus placodops-02, the pinnacle of beauty and elegance in the ant world—a species so extraordinary it redefines what it means to keep ants. These stunning creatures captivate with their fiery red heads and sleek black thoraxes and abdomens, creating a bold, dramatic contrast that’s impossible to ignore. But the true showstopper lies in their repletes—specialized workers that swell with nectar, transforming into glistening, living gemstones that illuminate the colony with their radiant brilliance. Every glance at Myrmecocystus placodops-02 is like witnessing nature’s artistry in motion. Their vibrant colors, unique adaptations, and mesmerizing behaviors make them more than an ant species—they’re an unforgettable experience, a living masterpiece that elevates any collection. For enthusiasts craving unparalleled beauty, intrigue, and sheer awe, Myrmecocystus placodops-02 is the ultimate showpiece, destined to leave everyone captivated.

Caring for Myrmecocystus placodops-02 is an exciting and rewarding endeavor, perfect for intermediate to advanced ant keepers looking for a captivating challenge. This resilient species requires a thoughtfully designed setup, including nests with generous vertical space to support the growth of their iconic repletes—living nectar reservoirs that bring unparalleled beauty to the colony. Their impressive climbing abilities call for consistent barrier maintenance to ensure containment, while relocating the colony requires delicate handling to protect the fragile repletes during transfers. Although these ants don’t sting, they employ a fascinating defense mechanism by spraying formic acid, adding a layer of intrigue to their care. With their specific needs, mesmerizing behaviors, and striking appearance, Myrmecocystus placodops-02 is a standout choice for dedicated ant enthusiasts ready to elevate their collection with a dynamic and truly extraordinary species.

Caring for Myrmecocystus placodops-02 requires precision and dedication to create the ideal environment for the colony to thrive. Maintain a temperature range of 80-87°F, aiming for an optimal 85°F, with a heat mat or cable regulated by a thermostat to ensure consistent warmth and a gradient for natural temperature regulation. Provide a balanced diet rich in insect protein and sweet nectar, such as sugar water, to support the colony’s steady growth and vitality. Humidity management is crucial—offering varying moisture levels within the nest, allowing the ants to adjust to their preferred conditions. To accommodate the repletes as they expand, nests should feature tall ceilings, while a sandy substrate ensures proper cocoon formation and brood development. By meeting these specific needs, Myrmecocystus placodops-02 will thrive, rewarding keepers with their captivating behaviors, vibrant colony dynamics, and stunning aesthetic appeal.

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

States available for purchase:

Arizona, California, Colorado, 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