Giant Big-Headed Ant (Pheidole rhea)

Pheidole rhea (Giant Big-Headed Ant) Pheidole rhea is one of the largest and most visually impressive big-headed ant species. These ants display a strong caste system, and the workers are trimorphic rather than merely dimorphic, so a mature colony runs small minors, large majors, and super majors whose heads are out of all proportion to their bodies. Native to the American Southwest, P. rhea colonies grow rapidly when provided with warmth and food. They are highly active and social, creating constant movement in the nest and outworld. This balance of activity and structure makes them an exceptional species for keepers who love to observe colony dynamics. With bright reddish-brown coloration and oversized majors, P. rhea offers both aesthetic appeal and biological interest, making it one of the most engaging big-headed ants for sale today. Species Info General: Large, fast-growing big-headed ant species with clear major and minor caste differentiation. Diet: A true seed harvester. Keep a stock of seeds in the nest, feed insect protein to push growth, and offer byFormica Ant Nectar or sugar water for carbohydrates. Temperature: Keep the warm end of the nest at 82 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit, with moderate humidity near the brood. This species does not grow at room temperature, so real heat is not optional here. Nest: Sand or loam setups with dry outworld. Diapause: Not required. Kept warm and fed through the winter, colonies keep growing. Growth: Rapid; colonies multiply quickly under heat and nutrition. Queen size: 10 to 14 mm. Minor workers: 3 to 4 mm. Majors: 6 to 8 mm, with super majors in mature colonies Note: All ants for sale have a range where the species is native. Always check your local regulations before purchasing live ants. States Native: Arizona, California, New Mexico Learn more: Pheidole Ant Care Guide | Ant Feeding Guide Learn more: Pheidole Ant Care Guide | All Big-Headed Ants | Ant Feeding Guide