Atta Mexicanus Leafcutter Ant Colony
Overview
Atta mexicanus are a robust and fascinating species of leafcutter ant native to Mexico. They are highly adaptable and often found nesting in urban environments. During nuptial flights, the queens are even considered a delicacy and a rich source of protein in parts of Mexico.
For collectors and enthusiasts, Atta mexicanus represent one of the most remarkable examples of symbiosis in nature. These ants maintain a unique relationship with their cultivated fungus, Leucoagaricus gongylophorus, which has evolved over millions of years. Both Atta and Acromyrmex are classed as “higher attine” species — completely dependent on their fungus, which in turn cannot survive without them.
Care Level
Difficulty: Advanced
We recommend Atta mexicanus only for experienced keepers who have successfully maintained at least two exotic ant species. Please conduct additional research before purchase.
Growth and Maintenance
Atta colonies can grow into the millions in the wild, but in captivity, population growth can be controlled through careful management of feeding, space, and temperature.
Optimal Temperature: 25–26°C
Controlled Growth Temperature: 20–24°C (for established colonies of 200–300 workers with a tennis ball–sized fungus)
Humidity: 80–99% (we personally recommend maintaining 90–95%)
 Important: The fungus must be kept below 30°C — higher temperatures can cause irreversible damage or fungal die-off.
Workers collect and process fresh leaves, mulch them, and apply them to the fungus to cultivate new growth. Observing this process is both educational and mesmerising, revealing the complexity of their cooperative behaviour.
What’s Included
Queen with workers and brood
Golf ball–sized fungus (worker numbers depend on your selected option)
Next Day Delivery by 1 pm at no extra cost (standard shipping fee only)
Comprehensive care sheet
Exclusive invite to our private Facebook learning group
Secure and sturdy packaging (heat pack included if needed)
We also sell fungus boosts if needed for your leafcutter colonies. 
Fungus Boost: £27.99 for an extra golf ball–sized portion (+ postage). Upgraded to Special Next Day Delivery.
See our dedicated Leafcutter Page for details.
Live Arrival Guarantee
In the unlikely event that your queen and fungus arrive dead, we will send a free replacement.
You must contact us within 24 hours of delivery.
We highly recommend providing unboxing photos or video for insurance purposes.
(Please note only the queen and fungus are covered under the live arrival guarantee.)
Delivery Information
After your purchase, we will contact you to arrange the most suitable delivery date.
Colonies are shipped in secure, small parcel-sized boxes and must be received in person to ensure their safety.
Experience and Support
We have spent over a year studying and maintaining leafcutter colonies in captivity to understand their needs and refine our care techniques. Our care sheet covers every aspect of successful keeping, and we offer rapid response support — often within just a few hours — to help with any issues you may encounter.
Join our growing community and experience the wonder of Atta mexicanus — a living example of natural cooperation and evolutionary brilliance.