Rough Harvester Ant - Pogonomyrmex rugosus "red and black"

Meet Pogonomyrmex rugosus "red and black," a vibrant and hardy harvester ant that commands attention with its striking mix of red and black coloring, which varies based on where the colony was collected. Queens grow to an impressive 11-13mm, leading energetic 7-9mm workers in relentless seed-gathering missions that fuel the colony’s growth. While seeds form the core of their diet, insect protein is essential during early development to ensure the colony thrives. Known for their resilience and tireless work ethic, Pogonomyrmex rugosus "red and black" offers an exciting and rewarding ant-keeping experience, perfect for enthusiasts seeking beauty, action, and a colony that thrives with purpose.

Pogonomyrmex rugosus "red and black" offers the perfect mix of striking appearance, resilience, and easy care, making it an ideal choice for beginner ant keepers. Sporting vibrant red and black colors that vary depending on their collection location, these hardy harvester ants bring both visual charm and constant activity to any setup. Queens reach 13mm, while 8mm workers work tirelessly to gather seeds, with supplemental insect protein supporting healthy growth during the colony’s early development. Their poor climbing skills minimize the risk of escapes, keeping barrier maintenance straightforward and stress-free. Once established, these ants can grow on a mostly seed-based diet, simplifying their care routine. However, while they are low-maintenance, they can deliver a painful sting if mishandled, so respectful handling is key. With bold colors, energetic foraging, and a robust nature, Pogonomyrmex rugosus "red and black" provides an exciting, engaging ant-keeping experience for enthusiasts of all levels.

Caring for Pogonomyrmex rugosus "red and black" is straightforward, making them an excellent option for ant keepers at any experience level. Maintain a temperature range of 90-95°F, with 93°F being optimal, using a heat mat or cable paired with a thermostat, and ensure a heat gradient to keep the colony comfortable. These ants thrive on a granivorous diet, with seeds as their primary food source, but insect protein is essential during early colony stages to promote healthy development. Occasionally offering nectar or sugar water provides an extra energy boost to fuel their activity. A nest with a humidity gradient allows the ants to choose their preferred moisture levels, though no specialized setup is required. With low climbing abilities minimizing escape risks, these hardy ants are easy to manage. Their striking colors, nonstop foraging, and low-maintenance care make Pogonomyrmex rugosus "red and black" a thrilling and highly rewarding ant-keeping experience.








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

States available for purchase:

Arizona, California, Colorado, Kansas, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, 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