Rhytidiponera Metallica

Rhytidiponera metallica (Green Headed Ant)

This alluring, green metallic species of ant originates from the Eastern terrirtories of Australia, therefore encompassing a range of subtropical/temperate areas.

Colonies of this species can reach upto 2,000-4,000 worker ants and interestingly, these are able to reproduce through the apperance of gamergates (reproductive worker ants). 

In the wild, nests are often found underground between shrubs and stones in the soil. Moreover, this is a relatively common species of ant found in the East Coast of Australia. 

They are a relatively fast growing species of ant yet display fairly large levels of aggresion when threatened. Alongside feeder insects and sweet liquid solutions, this keystone species of ants should be provided with a variety of seeds as they generally have a pivotal role in seed dispering mechanisms in their natural habitat.

Caution should be maintained when handling these as they can sting and cause irritation. 

Due to the temperate/subtropical nature of their natural environment, these ants are  generally active throughout the year but their metabolism does slow down during the winter and therefore, a light hibernation period should be replicated during the months of June to August. 

Top tip: If you're looking for an open display terrarium style ant farm, these are unable to climb vertically on smooth surfaces such as glass!

It is illegal and strictly frowned upon to release any non-native ants into the wild.