Pheidole morrisii (Big-Headed Ant)

Pheidole morrisii (Big-Headed Ant) Pheidole morrisii is an eastern big-headed ant native to a broad stretch of the central, southern, and eastern United States. Like other Pheidole, this species produces two distinct worker castes: small, busy minor workers and large-headed major workers, or soldiers, that crack seeds and defend the colony. That dramatic size difference makes big-headed ants for sale like P. morrisii a fun and educational species to keep. Pheidole colonies are fully claustral and famous for their fast growth. A single queen can build a large, active colony surprisingly quickly, filling the nest with the constant activity of minors while soldiers stand ready. Few ants show off caste differences as clearly as Pheidole. This species is an excellent choice for beginners. It is hardy, undemanding, and thrives on sugars and insect protein such as crickets, mealworms, roaches and fruit flies. It rarely bothers with seeds, so there is no need to stock them. Keep the warm end of the nest at 80 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit with a modest hydrated area, and brood runs about 4 to 6 weeks. Fed and heated properly, a colony can pass 1,000 workers in its first year, with the first majors showing up in the second or third generation. Hibernation is not required. Queens are the largest of the genus in the eastern United States. Each order is a healthy queen or founding colony, packed with care and shipped with our Live Arrival Guarantee. Native range: the central, southern, and eastern United States. Learn more: Pheidole Ant Care Guide | All Big-Headed Ants | Ant Feeding Guide