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

Cephalotes chacmul

Non-Parasitic Queen No Gamergate
Nom. sci.
Cephalotes chacmul
Tribù
Attini
Sottofamiglia
Myrmicinae
Autore
Snelling, 1999
Distribuzione
Trovata in 0 paesi

Introduzione

Cephalotes chacmul is a small to medium-sized ant in the genus Cephalotes, known as turtle ants for their ability to block nest entrances with their armored heads. Workers measure 3.4-4.0 mm in total length, and soldiers reach about 5.2 mm with enlarged heads . This species is found only in Mexico, specifically the Yucatan Peninsula . Workers are blackish with yellow spots on the gaster and have textured bodies with fine foveae and scale-like hairs . This species belongs to the texanus clade and was collected from bromeliad pseudobulbs, indicating it nests in plant cavities . Like other Cephalotes, they likely live in small colonies in hollow twigs, and their soldier caste acts as a living door guard.

Caricamento mappa di distribuzione...

Stato per paese, da Kass et al. 2022 & Wong et al. 2023

Nativa Invasiva Introdotta (interni) Intercettata Sconosciuto
Fonti di dati
Intervallo di anni 2000 - 2026

Quick Summary

  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Origin & Habitat: Mexico (Quintana Roo) in the Yucatan Peninsula, nesting in plant cavities like bromeliad pseudobulbs [1].
  • Colony Type: Colony structure is unconfirmed. Based on typical Cephalotes patterns, colonies likely have a single queen with minor and major worker castes.
  • Size & Growth:
    • Queen: Size data unavailable
    • Worker: 3.4-4.0 mm [1]
    • Colony: Unknown
    • Growth: Moderate (inferred from genus patterns)
    • Development: Unknown (No specific development data available for this species.)
  • Antkeeping:
    • Temperature: Keep at 24-28°C with a gentle gradient, as they are tropical ants from Mexico.
    • Humidity: Keep substrate moderately moist but allow some drying areas, based on their humid natural habitat.
    • Diapause: No, tropical species do not require diapause.
    • Nesting: Naturally nest in plant cavities, provide hollow twigs or bamboo sections in captivity [1].
  • Behavior: Cephalotes species are peaceful with a defensive soldier caste that blocks nest entrances [1]. Workers may sting, but stings are less medically significant. Escape risk is moderate due to their size.
  • Common Issues: temperature drops below 20°C can stress the colony, inadequate humidity may affect brood development, small colonies are vulnerable to disturbances

Nest Preferences and Housing

Cephalotes chacmul was collected from bromeliad pseudobulbs, indicating it naturally nests in plant cavities [1]. In captivity, provide hollow bamboo sections, twigs, or cork bark as nesting options. Use snug-fitting chambers to allow the soldier's head-plug defense to work effectively. Avoid overly large, open spaces.

Feeding and Diet

As members of the tribe Attini, Cephalotes are omnivorous. Offer sugar water or honey constantly, and protein sources like small insects every few days. Feed small amounts and adjust based on consumption.

Temperature and Seasonal Care

This tropical species requires warm, stable temperatures around 24-28°C. Use a heating mat if room temperature falls below 24°C. Maintain humidity with occasional misting.

Behavior and Colony Defense

Soldiers have enlarged heads that seal nest entrances, acting as living doors [1]. Workers are generally peaceful and may sting, but stings are less medically significant. Escape prevention is straightforward due to their size.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Cephalotes chacmul to produce first workers?

Unknown, no specific data available for this species.

Can I keep Cephalotes chacmul in a test tube?

Test tubes can work for founding, but this species prefers plant-like cavities. Move to a small nest once the colony grows.

What do Cephalotes chacmul eat?

They are omnivorous. Offer sugar water and protein sources like small insects.

Are Cephalotes chacmul good for beginners?

This species is not ideal for beginners due to unknown captive biology. Experienced keepers may find it rewarding.

How big do Cephalotes chacmul colonies get?

Colony size is unknown for this species.

Do Cephalotes chacmul need hibernation?

No, tropical species do not require hibernation.

When should I move my colony to a formicarium?

Move when the colony shows space constraints, using snug-fitting chambers.

Why are my Cephalotes chacmul dying?

Common causes include low temperature, poor humidity, or stress. Review care conditions.

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References

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