Scientific illustration of Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus ant - showing key identification features including head, thorax, and gaster.

Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus

Non-Parasitic Queen No Gamergate
Sci. Name
Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus
Tribe
Pogonomyrmecini
Subfamily
Myrmicinae
Author
Vásquez-Bolaños & Mackay, 2004
Distribution
Found in 1 countries
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Introduction

Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus is a small harvester ant endemic to western Mexico, specifically Michoacán and Jalisco states . Workers were described in 2004,and the species belongs to the guatemaltecus group . Size data is unavailable as only workers have been described . This ant is adapted to warm, dry conditions in its native habitat . As a harvester ant, it likely collects and stores seeds, a behavior characteristic of the genus Pogonomyrmex .

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Status by country, from Kass et al. 2022 & Wong et al. 2023

Native Invasive Introduced (indoor) Intercepted Unknown
Data Sources
Year Range 2000 - 2026

Quick Summary

  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Origin & Habitat: Native to western Mexico, specifically Michoacán and Jalisco states at elevations around 195 meters [3]. They inhabit warm, dry areas [1].
  • Colony Type: Unconfirmed. No data on colony structure for this species.
  • Size & Growth:
    • Queen: Unknown, size data unavailable [1]
    • Worker: Unknown, size data unavailable [1]
    • Colony: Unknown, no colony size data available
    • Growth: Unknown
    • Development: Unknown, no species-specific data available (Development timeline has not been studied for this species.)
  • Antkeeping:
    • Temperature: Keep warm, as this species is from low-elevation Mexico [3]. Avoid temperatures below 5°C or above 35°C.
    • Humidity: Keep nest relatively dry, as they are adapted to semi-arid habitats [1].
    • Diapause: Unknown, no data on diapause for this species.
    • Nesting: Use a dry, well-drained nest setup, such as Y-tong or plaster nests, based on their native habitat [3].
  • Behavior: Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus is likely defensive and has a painful sting, as typical for the genus [2]. Escape prevention is important, but they are not particularly small.
  • Common Issues: limited data makes specific care requirements uncertain, use genus-level guidance [2], sting pain potential means handling should be minimized [2], overheating risk is greater than for temperate species, avoid temperatures above 35°C, dry nesting conditions are critical, too much humidity can kill colonies [1], wild-caught colonies may have parasites that affect survival in captivity

Species Identification and Background

Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus was formally described in 2004 by Vásquez-Bolaños and Mackay [1]. The species name refers to the swollen humeral area [2]. This ant belongs to the guatemaltecus species group [2]. Only the worker caste has been described [1]. The species is endemic to western Mexico, with confirmed records from Michoacán and Jalisco states [1][3].

Natural History and Foraging Behavior

As a Pogonomyrmex species, P. humerotumidus is likely a seed-harvesting ant [2]. Workers forage individually and may tend aphids for honeydew [2]. The genus is known for aggressive defense and painful stings [2].

Housing and Nest Setup

Use a dry nest setup that mimics their native semi-arid habitat [1][3]. Y-tong or plaster nests work well [2]. Ensure the outworld is escape-proof [2].

Feeding and Nutrition

Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus likely feeds primarily on seeds [2]. Offer small seeds and occasional protein sources like insects [2].

Temperature and Seasonal Care

Keep at warm temperatures, based on their low-elevation habitat [3]. A temperature gradient is recommended [2]. Diapause is unknown for this species.

Handling and Safety

All Pogonomyrmex species have functional stingers and can deliver painful stings [2]. Handle with care to avoid stings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus to produce first workers?

Unknown, no species-specific data available [1].

What do Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus ants eat?

Primarily seeds, as harvester ants [2].

What temperature should I keep Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus at?

Keep them warm, as they are from low-elevation Mexico [3].

Do Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus colonies need hibernation?

Unknown, no data on diapause for this species.

How big do Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus colonies get?

Colony size has not been documented for this species [1].

Is Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus a good species for beginners?

This is a medium-difficulty species due to limited data and specific needs [2].

Can I keep multiple Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus queens together?

Colony structure is unconfirmed, so it is not recommended to house multiple queens together.

What type of nest should I use for Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus?

Use a dry, well-drained nest like Y-tong or plaster nests [2].

Where is Pogonomyrmex humerotumidus native to?

This species is endemic to western Mexico, specifically Michoacán and Jalisco states [1][3].

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References

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This caresheet is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 .