Pheidole rhea (Desert Big-Headed Ant)

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Pheidole rhea — a desert big-headed ant and one of the largest Pheidole in the U.S. A dimorphic species: tiny, busy minor workers alongside dramatic big-headed majors (soldiers) that crack seeds with oversized jaws. Fast-growing and fascinating to watch.

• You'll receive: a fresh, fully claustral queen with brood.
• Founding: Fully claustral.
• Diet: Seeds plus insect protein — a granivore with a taste for protein.
• Range: Southwestern U.S. deserts.
• Difficulty: Intermediate — fast growth, loves heat.

New here? Read our Pheidole rhea care guide →

From their chamber to your door — shipped with care by Royal Chamber Ants.

Native range (U.S.): Arizona, New Mexico, Texas.