Leafcutter Ant Atta Cephalotes (Queen and 100+ Workers with Fungus) - Pick-Up Only

Atta cephalotes Ant Colony (Leafcutter Ant / Parasol Ant)

The Atta cephalotes (South American Leafcutter Ant) is, without a doubt, the most iconic and impressive ant species in the world. Many enthusiasts first became passionate about ants after seeing this fantastic species hauling pieces of green leaf in a zoo or museum. This also applies to the founder of Mierenboerderij, Jan-Peter Oudenampsen! It is therefore a great source of pride that we breed and offer this special species ourselves for experienced hobbyists, zoos, museums, and specialist shops.

Unique behavior: The underground fungus garden

Leafcutter ants do not eat the cut leaves themselves but use the greenery as raw material to cultivate their own food: a specific fungus. Within the colony, you can observe a fascinating division of labor. Large workers and impressive Majors (soldiers) venture out to cut and transport leaves, while smaller workers in the nest chew the leaves into pulp to feed and care for the fungus garden.

Available for pick-up exclusively at our showroom (Apeldoorn)

Because an Atta colony is very sensitive to fluctuations in temperature and humidity (and depends on a healthy fungus), we do not ship these ants by mail. The colony can only be picked up by appointment at our showroom in Apeldoorn. During pick-up, we take ample time to provide you with personal advice on ideal climate control, suitable leaf types, and fungus care.

Care and climatic requirements

Keeping leafcutter ants is a wonderful challenge that requires precision and professional dedication. The colony requires a constant high temperature (23°C - 28°C) and extremely high humidity (95% - 99%) around the fungus. As food, they accept a wide range of fresh leaves (such as blackberry leaves, rose leaves, and oak leaves).

Atta cephalotes Specifications:

• Scientific name: Atta cephalotes
• Dutch name: Bladsnijdersmier / Parasolmier (Leafcutter Ant / Parasol Ant)
• Difficulty: 3 (Professional / Advanced – requires specific climate control)
• Queen size: 25 - 30 mm (Giant)
• Worker size: 3 - 15 mm (Extreme variation from very small 'gardeners' to enormous soldiers)
• Colony type: Monogynous (1 queen per nest)
• Diet: Various types of fresh leaves (blackberry, rose, oak etc.) to support the fungus
• Humidity: 95% - 99% (Specific to the fungus chamber)
• Temperature: 23°C - 28°C (Constant)
• Hibernation: None
• Distribution: Central and South America
• Delivery: Includes active fungus culture. Available for pick-up in Apeldoorn only!

Do you dream of experiencing the most fascinating ant species in the world up close? Contact us or order directly to schedule your pick-up appointment in Apeldoorn!