Common name : Red harvester ant
Scientific name : Pogonomyrmex barbatus
Family : Formicidae
Native to : South-West United States
Interesting fact : The red harvester ants are known for their foraging behaviour. The ant workers are divided into 3 groups–nest patrollers, trail patrollers and foragers.
5-7 mm in length, these ants are very often mistaken for fire ants. They build their nests in dry arid underground areas. The nest opening is free from vegetation and plants. Their primary food source is seeds. The males differentiate between the sexes by releasing pheromones. Also, during mating, there is strong male competition to attract females.
