Caramel Honeypot Ant - Myrmecocystus sp. (undescribed)

Meet this unique and yet-to-be-described species of Myrmecocystus, an extraordinary honeypot ant admired for its resemblance to Myrmecocystus testaceus and its captivating light coloration. This species boasts a warm palette of pale yellow, tan, and light amber tones, often appearing almost caramel-like, blending seamlessly into its arid, sandy environment. The queen, measuring 11-13mm, displays these rich caramel-brown hues, while the workers, ranging from 2-9mm, exhibit a uniform golden or pale tone, adding to the colony’s cohesive and elegant appearance. Unlike many other Myrmecocystus species, this one is highly polymorphic, showcasing a diverse range of worker sizes and morphologies that add to its intrigue and functionality. A hallmark of Myrmecocystus is its repletes—specialized workers with swollen, nectar-filled abdomens that glow translucently and hang like clusters of grapes from the nest ceiling, creating a magical and functional display. These living storage units are critical to the colony’s survival, storing essential resources for use in harsh conditions. This undescribed polymorphic species is a testament to nature’s adaptability, combining stunning aesthetics, versatility, and survival ingenuity to create a truly remarkable ant species.

This undescribed Myrmecocystus species is a rare and mesmerizing gem in the ant-keeping world, captivating enthusiasts with its striking polymorphism that remains fascinating even as the colony grows to full size. Like all honeypot ants, they require a nest with ample vertical ceiling space to support proper replete formation, a vital aspect of their survival and development. Instead of stinging, they defend themselves by spraying formic acid, which is generally harmless to humans unless it contacts an open wound, where it may cause a mild burning sensation—nothing serious or threatening. However, their care is far from simple; these ants demand intermediate to advanced expertise due to their specific environmental needs and delicate nature, especially during the critical founding stages. For dedicated keepers, this species offers a rewarding but challenging experience, blending beauty, intrigue, and complexity.

Caring for this undescribed Myrmecocystus species demands meticulous attention to their unique environmental needs to ensure optimal growth and replete development. Best suited for experienced keepers, these honeypot ants are particularly sensitive during the founding stages, and improper care can risk colony collapse. Maintaining a stable temperature range of 80-85°F, ideally around 80°F, is essential and can be achieved using a thermostat-controlled heat mat or cable, with a gradient to help regulate their body temperature and support brood development. Humidity is equally critical, so the nest should provide a moisture gradient, allowing the ants to find their preferred levels. Like other Myrmecocystus, they thrive on a diet of insect protein and sugary liquids like nectar or sugar water, which are vital for their growth. As skilled climbers, regular barrier checks are necessary to prevent escapes. Their nests must also include vertical space for replete formation and sandy substrate for cocoon construction. Due to their polymorphism, they may require faster nest expansions compared to smaller Myrmecocystus species. Like Myrmecocystus testaceus, this undescribed honeypot also requires a diapause during the winter months for healthy colony growth. During this time, lower the temperature to 50-65°F for about three months to simulate their natural seasonal cycle. While their care is challenging, this species offers a rewarding and captivating experience for dedicated ant enthusiasts ready to embrace the responsibility.

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