Two European seed-harvesting ants are popular with ant keepers: Messor structor and Messor barbarus. Both are beginner-friendly and both are fascinating to watch. Here is how they differ.
At a glance
| Messor structor | Messor barbarus | |
|---|---|---|
| Range | Southern and central Europe, into North Africa and western Asia | Western Mediterranean: southern Europe and North Africa |
| Queens | Often several (polygynous) | One (monogynous) |
| Colony size | Thousands of workers | About 10,000 on average |
| Worker size | About 4–10 mm | About 3–12 mm |
| Nest temperature | About 22–26 °C | About 22–25 °C |
| Winter rest | Yes, a cool rest of a couple of months | Yes, a few months at about 10–15 °C |
The figures come from published ant-keeping sources that agree with each other. Where sources disagree, such as on humidity or exact winter temperatures, we do not give a number.
Queens
The biggest practical difference is the queen structure. Messor barbarus has one queen, which keeps things simple. Messor structor colonies often have several queens and some populations form large networks of connected nests.
Identity
Take care with names. The name Messor structor is used for a group of closely related ants, and research on Central European populations has found more than one species. Trade names such as "European harvester ant" are used for several species. Ask where a colony comes from.
Which should you choose?
- Choose Messor barbarus if you want a single-queen colony that grows large and shows impressive trunk trails.
- Choose Messor structor if you like the idea of several queens, a Central European species and slightly warmer conditions in the nest.
Either way you will need seeds, a nest with a moist brood area and a dry seed store, and a cool winter rest. Our harvester ant care guide covers all of it, and the species guides go deeper: Messor structor care guide and Messor barbarus care guide.
Frequently asked questions
Are both species suitable for beginners?
Yes. Ant-keeping sources describe both as beginner-friendly.
Do they need the same food?
Yes: mainly seeds, with small insects and a sugar source as additions.
Can I keep them together?
No. Different species fight. Always keep each colony separately.
Not sure which colony is right for you?
Tell us about your experience, your space and the climate at home, and we will suggest species that fit. You can also explore the Ant Atlas or browse the shop.