Andrei's Harvester Ant - Veromessor andrei "Castaneus"

Meet Veromessor andrei "Castaneus," the striking all-red harvester ant that brings both beauty and efficiency to your colony! With queens measuring 8-10mm and workers ranging from 5 to 7mm, these ants stand out with vibrant red bodies complemented by sleek black abdomens, creating a visually captivating display. Known for their relentless seed-gathering behavior, they can thrive entirely on a seed-based diet, making feeding simple and hassle-free. For those looking to supercharge their colony’s growth, adding insect protein will accelerate development, making the colony even more dynamic. With their bold colors, tireless work ethic, and low-maintenance needs, Veromessor andrei "Castaneus" offers an exciting and rewarding ant-keeping experience for enthusiasts of all levels.

Veromessor andrei "Castaneus" is the ultimate beginner-friendly ant, combining bold aesthetics, adaptability, and nonstop action for an ant-keeping experience like no other. Cloaked in vibrant red with sleek black abdomens, these dynamic harvesters are as visually stunning as they are resilient. Known for their tireless seed-gathering, they thrive on a simple seed-based diet, with a boost from insect protein accelerating their growth to keep the colony buzzing with energy. Their ability to withstand a variety of conditions makes them one of the most forgiving species around, perfect for keepers of all levels. While they don’t sting, these ants might give a mild bite if provoked—nothing to worry about, even for first-timers. Though moderate climbers, a little barrier maintenance keeps them secure. With minimal care needs, bold colors, and non-stop foraging, Veromessor andrei "Castaneus" offers an exciting, easy, and rewarding ant-keeping journey that will leave enthusiasts captivated from day one.

Caring for Veromessor andrei "Castaneus" is simple, making them a great choice for beginners and experienced keepers alike. Maintain a temperature range of 80-85°F, with 85°F being ideal, using a heat mat or cable paired with a thermostat, and provide a heat gradient for their comfort. While these ants can thrive entirely on seeds, adding insect protein to their diet helps accelerate growth, and occasional nectar or sugar water gives them an extra energy boost. A well-designed nest with a humidity gradient allows them to select their preferred moisture levels, ensuring optimal health. Though they are moderate climbers, regular barrier maintenance will prevent escapes, keeping things easy to manage. With their low-maintenance care needs, vibrant appearance, and active foraging behavior, Veromessor andrei "Castaneus" offers a fun and rewarding ant-keeping experience.








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

States available for purchase:

California, Oregon

• 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