Description

This is a very spectacular, aggressive ant species with a single queen (monogynous). Their appearance, movement, and habitus are extremely similar to wasps. They are aggressive hunters, capable of dealing with any size of insects. They neutralize their prey with their sting and a powerful bite, which is as painful as a wasp sting. Therefore, it is recommended to keep them in a completely escape-proof formicarium with attention. They are semi-claustral species, the queen requires feeding from the beginning. Both their heads and abdomens are glossy black, and their thoraxes have a striking, bright red coloration. They make their nests into wood, and they become more active and reproduce rapidly in warmer conditions. In colder temperatures, they retreat into their nests, so it is advisable to cool them down for cleaning time. They tolerate dry conditions well, they can be kept in a relatively dry environment with a few water sources, to prevent the appearance mites. This active species is always busy in the formicarium, that makes them fascinating to observe. Their workers climb well and find food everywhere. The queen’s expected lifespan can reach up to 10-15 years. Although their care and breeding are simple, their painful sting and aggressiveness make them suitable only for experienced ant keepers.

Food: With honey and insects.

Reproduction: They reproduce rapidly in warm conditions. In a mature colony, several hundred to several thousand workers may be present.

Hibernation: Tropical ant species, hibernation is not required.