Gatekeeper Big-Headed Ants (Pheidole lamia)

General: Pheidole lamia is a rare, specialized species of big-headed ant with interesting major castes. Similar to the genus Colobopsis, Pheidole lamia majors have long heads used to block tunnels and nest entrances. In the wild, this allows them to defend against raids from Solenopsis thief ants.  Even the queens resemble the strange majors with their long heads!

Diet: Pheidole lamia appear to be generalist ants. They accept sugars, such as sugarwater and honeywater, as well as proteins like fruit flies and cricket legs. Note that these are small ants, so give them TINY drops of sugar at a time!

Temperature: These ants need heat! They are from the southeast and will barely develop without it. Around 81-84 is best, but provide a gradient with cooler areas.

Diapause: This species does not typically need diapause, and it may be dangerous for them to be put in the fridge for any long period. If they slow down drastically in the winter, simply cool them to room temperature for a few weeks, keeping them fed.

Growth: Brood development takes 4-6 weeks depending on heating and caste. This species has rarely been grown in captivity, but it is believed their colonies can get to around 500-1000 workers.

Queen size: 5mm

Worker size: 1.5 – 2.5mm

Major size: 2.5-3.5mm (elongated head)

If ants arrive in bad condition, contact us for help. Live arrival is guaranteed.