Myrmecocystus
Ant genus · 30 species · 2 countries
- Genus
- Myrmecocystus
- Subfamily
- Formicinae
- Tribe
- Lasiini
- Distribution
- Found in 2 countries
- Colony form
- monogynous, polygynous, optionally polygynous
- Species count
- 30 species
About Myrmecocystus
Myrmecocystus is a genus within the family Formicidae , classified in the subfamily Formicinae (tribe Lasiini) . AntScout currently documents 30 species in this genus, distributed across 2 countries , including Mexico, United States of America.
Species in this genus exhibit monogynous and polygynous and optionally polygynous colony structures. Monogynous colonies have a single reproductive queen, making them straightforward to start from a single founding queen - ideal for beginner ant keepers. Polygynous colonies can host multiple queens, allowing for rapid colony growth.
Where Myrmecocystus Is Found
Species in this genus are documented in 2 countries:
Frequently Asked Questions
How many species does Myrmecocystus have?
The genus Myrmecocystus includes 30 species documented on AntScout, spread across 2 countries. All documented species are extant (living).
Where do Myrmecocystus ants live?
Myrmecocystus species are found in 2 countries , including Mexico, United States of America. Distribution varies by species - check individual species pages for precise range maps.
Can I buy Myrmecocystus ants?
Myrmecocystus ants may be available from ant dealers depending on your region. Some species are popular in the hobby and regularly sold as founding queens or small colonies. Check local antkeeping communities or specialty shops in your country.
Are Myrmecocystus ants good for beginners?
This depends on the specific species. Some Myrmecocystus species are beginner-friendly with straightforward care requirements, while others may need specific conditions. Browse the individual species profiles below for care difficulty and requirements.
All Myrmecocystus Species (30)
Click a species to view its full profile, including distribution map, care information, nuptial flight calendar, and identification photos.
- Myrmecocystus arenarius Dune Honey Ant monogynous
- Myrmecocystus baja monogynous
- Myrmecocystus christineae 1 country
- Myrmecocystus colei Cole's Honeypot Ant 1 country monogynous
- Myrmecocystus creightoni Creighton's Honeypot Ant 1 country monogynous
- Myrmecocystus depilis Hairless Honeypot Ant 2 countries monogynous
- Myrmecocystus ewarti Ewart's Honeypot Ant 1 country
- Myrmecocystus flaviceps Yellow-headed Honeypot Ant 2 countries monogynous
- Myrmecocystus hammettensis 1 country
- Myrmecocystus intonsus 2 countries
- Myrmecocystus kathjuli Katherine and Julian's Honeypot Ant 1 country monogynous
- Myrmecocystus kennedyi Kennedy’s honeypot ant 2 countries monogynous
- Myrmecocystus koso 1 country
- Myrmecocystus lugubris 2 countries
- Myrmecocystus melanoticus 1 country
- Myrmecocystus melliger 2 countries monogynous
- Myrmecocystus mendax 2 countries monogynouspolygynousoptionally polygynous
- Myrmecocystus mexicanus Mexican Honeypot Ant 2 countries monogynous
- Myrmecocystus mimicus 2 countries monogynouspolygynousoptionally polygynous
- Myrmecocystus navajo Navajo Honeypot Ant 2 countries monogynous
- Myrmecocystus nequazcatl 1 country monogynous
- Myrmecocystus perimeces 1 country monogynous
- Myrmecocystus placodops 2 countries monogynous
- Myrmecocystus pyramicus 1 country monogynous
- Myrmecocystus romainei Romaine's Honeypot Ant 2 countries monogynous
- Myrmecocystus semirufus 2 countries monogynous
- Myrmecocystus tenuinodis 1 country monogynous
- Myrmecocystus testaceus Brick Honeypot Ant 2 countries monogynous
- Myrmecocystus wheeleri Wheeler’s Honeypot Ant 2 countries monogynous
- Myrmecocystus yuma 2 countries monogynous