Massive Big-Headed Ants (Pheidole rhea) - Image 2

Massive Big-Headed Ants (Pheidole rhea) - Image 3

Massive Big-Headed Ants (Pheidole rhea) - Image 4

Massive Big-Headed Ants (Pheidole rhea)

Price range: $195.99 through $254.99

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SKU: N/A Category: Queen ants for sale

Pheidole rhea For Sale!

Pheidole rhea is the largest known species of Pheidole in the world. They are rather rare, with a limited range and featuring Camponotus-sized queens and supermajors. One of the few species in the world that is truly trimorphic (having minors, majors, and supermajors). These ants grow very quickly, are very aggressive, and harvest seeds. Some consider them one of the best species in the world!

NOTE: This species forms very large colonies that may aggressively attempt escape. These ants should not be released into the wild. Ensure you have the capability to contain them before purchasing. Please contact us if you have containment questions or wish to verify that your formicarium is properly set up.

Species Info

General: Pheidole rhea is a fast growing, huge, trimorphic, chunky species of Pheidole from the southwest US and northern Mexico. This species is extraordinary. Compared to other Pheidole, they are giants.

Diet: Pheidole rhea are seed harvesters, but they also eat liquid sugars and protein. They like Kentucky Bluegrass, Chia, and Dandelion seeds. They love proteins such as crickets, mealworms, and fruit flies. Liquid sugars are completely optional. It’s best to maintain a large amount of seeds in the nest and feed protein if you want them to grow quickly!

Temperature: These ants require heating. Their nest should ideally be between 85-88, but provide a heating gradient if possible with cooler areas. Pheidole rhea will not grow at room temperature.

Diapause: Pheidole rhea does not need diapause. These ants can continue to grow and thrive year-round. It’s recommended to not let these ants get anywhere close to freezing temperatures!

Third Caste: Pheidole rhea has supermajors. Supermajors are a third caste, larger than majors with a different purpose. In the wild, they are used to crack large seeds and defend the nest from raids of Neivamyrmex (army ants). They’re absolute menaces.

Growth: Brood development takes 3-6 weeks depending on heating and caste. The majors tend to take longer to develop. Colonies can reach over 5,000 workers within the first year if fed lots and heated correctly.

This ant should never be released into the wild, regardless of where you live!

Queen size: 16-18mm

Worker size: 3-4.5mm

Major size: 5-10mm

Supermajor size: 11-13mm
Live Arrival Guaranteed

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