Paraponera clavata
The bullet ant from American rainforests: workers up to 25 mm and the most painful known insect sting. For very experienced keepers only.
Species at a glance
- Origin: humid lowland forests from Central America to the Amazon basin
- Size: queen 25–30 mm; workers 18–25 mm
- Colony: up to 2,500 workers
- Difficulty: high, for experienced keepers only
Care conditions
- Temperature: 22–28 °C
- Humidity: 70–90%
- Food: insects 2–3 times a week, diluted honey or sugar water, optionally soft fruit; fresh water at all times
Hibernation
Not needed: the colony stays active all year.
Farm and colony growth
The nest is in soil but the ants forage up high, so the arena should be tall, have branches and be fully closed.
Safety
The sting causes extremely severe pain lasting for hours. Use long forceps only, and keep the farm locked and out of reach of children and pets. This species is not for people allergic to bee or wasp stings.