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 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 you kill an Altaroth in this state, they will drop items depending on what they have absorbed. 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 you and order the rest of the swarm to attack as well.