Myrmecocystus kennedyi

Myrmecocystus kennedyi is a captivating honeypot ant species, with queens measuring around 12mm and workers at 6mm. The workers display a striking contrast between their red head and thorax against a dark black abdomen. Queens are equally distinctive, featuring a reddish-brown head, a brownish-black thorax, and a grayish-brown abdomen. As with other honeypots, the species is known for its repletes—specialized workers that store nectar in their abdomens, which swell dramatically to reveal the contents within.

To care for Myrmecocystus kennedyi, you'll need to provide a nest with ample vertical ceiling space to accommodate their repletes. These ants are agile climbers, making an escape-proof setup essential. Maintaining proper environmental conditions, including specific temperature and humidity levels, is crucial for their well-being. Unlike some other ant species, they aren't as resilient, requiring a more attentive and controlled habitat to thrive.

Myrmecocystus kennedyi is best suited for keepers with some experience, given their specialized care requirements. Their exceptional climbing ability, the need for particular nesting arrangements, and their relatively lower hardiness place them in the intermediate to advanced category. For enthusiasts seeking a visually appealing and behaviorally interesting species, Myrmecocystus kennedyi offers a rewarding challenge.

Myrmecocystus (Honeypot Ant) Care Sheet

iNaturalist link for Myrmecocystus kennedyi

Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Pros:

• Distinctive coloration and appearance.
• Fascinating replete formation unique to honeypot ants.
• They do not sting, relying on formic acid for defense.

Cons:

• High potential for escapes due to excellent climbing skills.
• Less resilient, requiring more meticulous care.

Care Requirements:

• Temperature Range: 80-85F (80F preferred) using a heat cable or heat mat paired with a thermostat. Like with most ants, having a heat gradient is beneficial.
  
• Food: Insect protein and nectar (sugar water) are both necessary for proper development. 
  
• Humidity: Nests that are made properly will have a gradient to allow the ants to choose a humidity range that suits their needs.
• Climbing Ability: Excellent climbers. Regular barrier maintenance is required.
• Honeypots require a nest with vertical ceiling space for replete development. They also need sand to form their cocoons. 
  

States available for purchase:

Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah

Photo Credits:

Photo 385388061, (c) James Bailey, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by James Bailey

Photo 385388081, (c) James Bailey, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by James Bailey

Photo 385388083, (c) James Bailey, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by James Bailey

Photo 385388070, (c) James Bailey, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by James Bailey

(permission for use obtained directly from photographer)