Brick Honeypot Ant - Myrmecocystus testaceus

Meet Myrmecocystus testaceus, a remarkable honeypot ant species known for its stunning light coloration and unique ability to store nectar within specialized workers called repletes. This species thrives with a warm palette of pale yellow, tan, and light amber tones that allow it to blend seamlessly into its arid and sandy environments. The queen, measuring around 10-12mm, displays these soft brown hues, while the 4-6mm workers exhibit a uniform golden or pale tone that complements the colony’s harmonious appearance.
What truly sets Myrmecocystus testaceus apart is its repletes, whose engorged abdomens take on a slightly translucent glow, reflecting the color of the stored nectar. These living storage units play a vital role in the colony's survival, showcasing the beauty and functionality of this fascinating species. Myrmecocystus testaceus is a testament to nature’s adaptability, combining elegance and practicality in one extraordinary ant species.

Caring for Myrmecocystus testaceus requires precision and dedication, making it an excellent choice for experienced ant keepers. This species thrives in environments with sufficient vertical space, which is crucial for the proper development of their repletes—specialized workers that store nectar to sustain the colony. Their remarkable climbing abilities demand regular barrier maintenance to ensure they remain securely contained. Early colony stages can be particularly challenging, as the ants are more delicate and less resilient during this time. Relocating the colony adds another layer of complexity, as the fragile repletes often require careful, manual handling to prevent damage. While they do not sting, Myrmecocystus testaceus defends itself by spraying formic acid when threatened. For keepers ready to meet their unique care requirements, this species offers an incredibly rewarding experience, showcasing fascinating behaviors and adaptations that highlight the beauty of nature’s ingenuity.

Caring for Myrmecocystus testaceus requires careful attention to their environmental needs to ensure the colony thrives. Maintain a consistent temperature between 77-82°F, with 80°F as the ideal target, using a heat mat or cable paired with a thermostat for stability. Providing a temperature gradient is essential to allow the ants to regulate their body heat naturally. A diet rich in insect protein and sugary liquids like nectar or sugar water is vital for their growth and overall health. Humidity management is equally critical, with a nest that offers varying moisture levels so the ants can adjust to their preferred conditions. High-ceilinged nests are essential for the proper development of repletes, which require vertical space to expand, while a sandy substrate supports successful cocoon formation. Unlike most myrmecocystus, myrmecocystus testaceus 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. With these conditions met, Myrmecocystus testaceus will flourish, rewarding keepers with their fascinating behaviors and the vibrant, dynamic charm of a thriving colony.

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

States available for purchase:

Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington.

• 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