Altaroth

Altaroths are an ant-like Neopteron featured in Monster Hunter 3. In all outward appearances, they resemble nothing more than giant ants. They live mostly in tall, narrow columns found in the Desert and are a favorite food of Barroth. They are also found in a wide range of other warm habitats. They can shoot a green liquid from their abdomens, which will inflict a temporary defense drop. Like other Neopterons, they shatter into pieces when killed and must be poisoned for its body to be carved.

An interesting note about the Altaroth is that they can absorb mushrooms, berries, and other map resources into the sac on their back. When hunters kill an Altaroth in this state, they will drop items depending on what they have absorbed. This can be taken to an advantage; if a hunter were to intercept and collect it before the Altaroth reaches their target, the Altaroth can be indirectly forced to consume one type of plant or mushroom. The swelling of their sacs is indicated by different colors.

Altaroths will not attack on their own unless they are threatened. The larger ones, however, will attack as soon as they spot a hunter and order the rest of the swarm to attack as well.They will not absorb any of the resources in their area unlike thier smaller types.