Description
This is a large, ground-nesting, monogynous (single-queen) ant species that inhabits tropical rainforests. It is semi-claustral, which means the queen requires feeding with honey and chopped insects during the initial period. Their appearance is quite unique, with both the queen and workers are matte black in color. In addition to their strong bite, they defend and hunt using their stingers. They require high humidity, so coconut fiber or peat is recommended for the substrate as it retains moisture well. Springtails and woodlice can also be installed into the soil to help prevent mite infection. They consume chopped insects of any size, and should be fed with honey water, sugar water, or a honey-sugar- water mixture every 2-3 days. They are unable to climb glass and other slippery surfaces, but due to their high humidity needs, it is not advisable to keep them in open terrariums, as these dry out more easily than fully enclosed ones. Starting a colony with just a queen is challenging, and while it’s little easier with a small group, we still have limited knowledge about them, making them one of the more difficult species to care for.
Recommended only for experienced ant keepers!
Feeding: Honey and insects.
Reproduction: The colony initially grows slowly, but by the third year, it can reach up to 100 workers. A mature colony consists of only a few hundred workers.
Hibernation: They do not require hibernation.
Matyi (verified owner) –
4 hónapja rendeltünk egy királynőt. Most 2 dolgozónál tart a boly, lassan de szépen fejlődnek. Tőzegmohával bélelt dobozkában, kémcsőben laknak rohamosan szaporodó ugróvillások társaságában. A kémcsőbe egy csomó anyagot behordtak, járatokat építettek benne, szorgos kis jószágok. A királynőt megjelöltük fehér kerámia filccel, ahogy egy videóban javasolták, de a kis huncut valahogy letakarította magáról 🙂 Nem vagyunk túl gyakorlottak, de egyelőre nem tűnik nehéznek a tartásuk.