Description

This species is native to Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. It can be found even at high mountains, this is the single ant species observed at 3750 meters on the highest mountain of the Arabian Peninsula. The queen and the workers are both dark in color, either black or grayish. They are claustral. In nature, they nest in the soil, occasionally under stones. While they tolerate cold well, they reproduce quickly in warm conditions. Although they are shy, they will aggressively raise their abdomen and spray formic acid at attackers when threatened, allowing them to defend themselves with minimal losses. They forage both at ground level and on higher objects or plants. Due to their shyness, it is recommended to offer them larger insects in pieces. They can handle smaller insects (e.g., springtails or fruit flies) on their own.
Feeding: Honey and insects, but occasionally oily seeds (walnuts, hazelnuts) are also recommended.
Reproduction: In the first year, they raise at most 25-40 workers, but from the second year on, the colony size can reach 100 workers. A mature colony consists of several thousand workers.
Hibernation: Hibernation is not necessary, but if they are kept warm, it is recommended to keep them at room temperature for 2-3 months in winter and let the queen take a rest.