aheanogaster occidentalis - the western funnel ants

Apheanogaster Occidentalis is a species of funnel ant. Their name is the funnel ant because their mounds are built like funnels to lure insects in. Once there in the funnel they can't get out ( except for the workers).

Apheanogaster workers with larvae.

Where do they nest? Apeanogaster Occidentalis nest under rocks, branches and will also make funnel nests as well.

Apeanogaster Occidentalis nest.

What do they eat? They tend to eat whatever falls in the funnel. For instance, crickets, praying mantises (if they got hurt while falling in the funnel), locusts, and aphids, which produce honey dew.  They also forage for honey. 

Apeanogaster Occidentalis eating a mosquito.

How do they do in captivity? They are a very good species for intermediate ant keepers. They do great in a dirt set-up, but don't expect to see them on the surface foraging.

Aphaenogaster Occidentalis in captivity.

my Apheanogaster occidentalis colony.