Question 1

Can I keep Cephalotes integerrimus as a pet?

Accepted Answer

No. Cephalotes integerrimus is an extinct species that lived approximately 15-20 million years ago. It is only known from fossil specimens preserved in Dominican amber. There are no living colonies in existence, so it is impossible to keep this species in captivity.

Question 2

Where can I buy Cephalotes integerrimus?

Accepted Answer

You cannot purchase Cephalotes integerrimus. This is an extinct species known only from fossils. Any 'specimens' offered for sale would either be misidentified living ant species or illegally traded fossil material. If you are interested in keeping turtle ants, look for living Cephalotes species from reputable ant suppliers.

Question 3

What does Cephalotes integerrimus look like?

Accepted Answer

Workers measured 3.78-4.06mm in total length. They had a head that was slightly broader than long, with distinctive flattened frontal carinae (ridge-like structures) that were not upturned above the eyes. The abdomen had paired semi-transparent lamellae (flap-like structures). The overall coloration included ferrugineous to brown transparent areas on the frontal carinae, vertexal angles, and gastral lamellae.

Question 4

How did Cephalotes integerrimus become extinct?

Accepted Answer

The exact cause of extinction for this specific species is unknown. Cephalotes integerrimus is known only from Miocene Dominican amber, meaning it existed approximately 15-20 million years ago. Many species went extinct during the Miocene due to climate changes, habitat loss, or other environmental factors. Unlike some Cephalotes species that survived to the present, this particular lineage did not survive.

Question 5

Are there living Cephalotes species I can keep?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the genus Cephalotes contains many living species that can be kept in captivity. These are commonly called 'turtle ants' due to their distinctive morphology. Species like Cephalotes varians are occasionally available from ant suppliers. Living species require typical ant care with attention to their arboreal nesting preferences in tropical conditions.

Question 6

What is Dominican amber?

Accepted Answer

Dominican amber is fossilized tree resin from the extinct Hymenaea protera tree, which lived in the tropical forests of what is now the Dominican Republic during the Miocene epoch (approximately 15-20 million years ago). This amber is famous for preserving incredible details of ancient insects, including this ant species, often with remarkable clarity.

Question 7

Where is Cephalotes integerrimus found?

Accepted Answer

Cephalotes integerrimus is found in 1 countries, including Dominican Republic.

Question 8

What is the colony form of Cephalotes integerrimus?

Accepted Answer

The colony form of Cephalotes integerrimus is not specified.

Question 9

How do I cite AntScout data?

Accepted Answer

To cite this documentation, use: AntScout. (2026). Cephalotes integerrimus Species Profile. Retrieved from https://antscout.com/species/cephalotes-integerrimus

Cephalotes integerrimus

Cephalotes integerrimus Overview

No caresheet needed

No specimens available

Literature

Not applicable