*Atta mexicana*

Name: Atta mexicana
Origin: Mexico and Central America
Queen: approx. 28 – 32 mm
Workers: Minor: 2 – 4 mm | Media: 5 – 12 mm | Major/Soldiers: 14 – 18 mm
Food: Fresh, untreated leaves (e.g., blackberry, raspberry, oak, rose leaves), oat flakes, and flower petals – for mushroom cultivation. No animal protein food necessary.
Humidity:
• Fungus garden: 90 – 95 %
• Arena: 50 – 70 %
Temperature:
• Fungus chamber: 24 – 26 °C
• Arena: 22 – 26 °C
Hibernation: None, tropical/subtropical species
Nest type: Multi-chamber nests for fungus cultivation, e.g., acrylic or glass containers with humidity control
Colony size: Several million workers in nature

Advantages and disadvantages of the species Atta mexicana

Advantages:
One of the largest and most impressive leaf-cutter ant species. Very active colony and foraging behavior. Fascinating due to symbiotic fungus cultivation and complex division of labor.

Disadvantages:
Very high space requirements and demanding husbandry. Requires consistently fresh, untreated leaf material. Without perfect climate control, the fungus dies – and with it the colony. Strong destructive power if they escape.

Care

During the founding phase, the queen should be kept with a small portion of fungus in a humid, well-ventilated container. Once the first workers emerge, the fungus nest is gradually enlarged. Later, several chambers will be needed for the fungus, waste, and foraging arena.

Feeding

Mainly fresh leaves (untreated), e.g., blackberry, raspberry, oak, cherry, or rose leaves. Additionally, flower petals and oat flakes can be given. The food is exclusively for nourishing the fungus, not for directly feeding the ants.