Dry Big Headed Ant - Pheidole xerophila

Meet Pheidole xerophila, a fascinating big-headed ant species that showcases a unique and visually striking caste system. The colony's minor workers, sleek and solid black at around 1.5-2.25mm, work alongside the impressive major workers, whose oversized red heads and black bodies make them stand out at 4.5-5mm. Adding to the spectacle are the queens, sharing the same bold color pattern as the majors, with vibrant red heads and black bodies, reaching 6mm in size. This species offers ant enthusiasts a captivating look into complex colony dynamics, where the distinct roles and striking appearances of each caste create a truly mesmerizing display. From majors crushing seeds and insects to minor workers carrying insect parts into the nest; Pheidole xerophila is perfect for those seeking both beauty and behavioral intrigue in their ant-keeping journey.

Pheidole xerophila is a resilient and fast-growing species, perfect for beginner to intermediate ant keepers seeking an exciting and rapidly expanding colony. Their granivorous diet makes feeding easy—seeds can serve as their primary food source, keeping care simple and straightforward. However, managing their bustling colony offers a rewarding challenge, as relocating hundreds of tiny workers requires patience, with an aspirator recommended for smooth nest expansions. Since their workers are capable climbers, regular barrier maintenance is essential, especially given their rapid growth. With their impressive colony expansion, dynamic caste system, and lively foraging behavior, it’s no wonder that Pheidole xerophila promises a thrilling and rewarding ant-keeping experience for enthusiasts looking to cultivate a vibrant, ever-growing colony.

Caring for Pheidole xerophila offers an exciting and rewarding experience, perfect for keepers looking to dive into the world of fast-growing, dynamic ant colonies. Maintain a temperature range of 83-90°F, with 85°F being the sweet spot, using a heat mat or cable and thermostat to create a stable, comfortable environment. Their granivorous diet makes feeding simple with seeds as their staple food, but supplementing with insect protein supercharges growth, while occasional nectar or sugar water keeps them energized. A proper nest with a humidity gradient allows these ants to thrive, choosing moisture levels that suit their needs. Though they don’t require a specific nest type, careful setup is key to prevent their small, sneaky workers from escaping. With their rapid expansion, visually striking caste system, and non-stop activity, Pheidole xerophila delivers a thrilling ant-keeping experience that will keep enthusiasts captivated and coming back for more.

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

States available for sale:

Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas

• 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