Big-Headed Ants (Pheidole obtusospinosa)

Product Description

Pheidole obtusospinosa is a small ant species found in the Southwest US and Northern Mexico. It is unique as one of the few trimorphic species, with workers, majors, and supermajors! These ants have rapid growth rates when provided with sufficient heating and ample food.

Colony

The colonies for sale include a queen, 5+ workers, eggs, larvae, and pupae in a test tube setup.

Growth

Maintaining a suitable temperature is crucial for fast development. Ideally, their nest should be kept between 85-92 degrees Fahrenheit, with a heating gradient if possible. Heating gradients can be obtained with a heating cable. Abundant feeding contributes to their accelerated growth. Given optimal conditions, colonies can expand to thousands of workers within the first year. The growth of Pheidole obtusospinosa can be slowed by keeping them at room temperature and less frequent feedings (once or twice per week).

Diet

Their diet is versatile, consisting of liquid sugars like byFormica Sunburst, chia seeds, and protein sources like crickets, fruit flies, and mealworms.

Housing

We generally sell our ants in test tubes. If local pickup is an option for you and the colony is large enough to move into a formicarium, we may be able to move the colony for you provided that you buy the setup from our store.

Live Arrival Guarantee

With this species, you must at least choose Priority Mail in order to be eligible for our Live Arrival Guarantee. More info here.

Shipping or Local Pickup

Currently, we are able to ship within AZ only. Your order will not get processed if your shipping address is outside of AZ. Info about our permits can be found here. Local pickup is available in Ahwatukee which is within the Metro Phoenix area.