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barnettgs: Looking for ideas with Antstore Starter set 3 (1. Sep 2005 01:07)

I have just finished with my first ytong setup for my Lasius Niger colony and it is sitting horizontal with glass on top. It is looking great at the moment.

Also I have Starter set 3, that will be used with my 2nd colony. Lasius Niger queen is still in test tube with her brood unhatched.

However, I know Starter set 3, does not have glass lid - does that means ytong block can be flushed against the wall of glass basin?

Also what should I do with 2 boxes of sand/loam - for hunting area? Should it be mixed with water before pouring it in glass basin?

I'm curious to know what you guys at Antstore do with starter set 3, I'm looking for ideas.

Thanks

Martin S.: (1. Sep 2005 06:45)

However, I know Starter set 3, does not have glass lid - does that means ytong block can be flushed against the wall of glass basin?
- You can cut the Ytong-Block with a saw in your wish size
http://www.antstore.net/shop/product_info.php?products_id=409
Or you put the Ytong in the midle of the basin.

Also what should I do with 2 boxes of sand/loam - for hunting area?
- Yes, you can do this. can you make a photo of your formicarium with all your equipment. Than can I see for what you can use it.

Should it be mixed with water before pouring it in glass basin?
- Yes, I think it's better to work with the ground.

Greetings Martin :D

barnettgs: (1. Sep 2005 13:27)

Yes, you can do this. can you make a photo of your formicarium with all your equipment. Than can I see for what you can use it.

Ok, here is a picture of Starter set 3 I have:

http://www.antstore.net/shop/images/product_images/popup_images/449_0.jpg

Thanks

Martin S.: (1. Sep 2005 14:23)

Only this, not own things :)

Some Users give the sand/loam in the holes and way from the Ytong. The ant colonie had than first not so a big nest. Later they can build the nest bigger. Or you give the sand/loam on the ground. How do you like it.

Please look some nests from other Users here: http://www.antstore.net/album_cat.php?cat_id=1

Martin :D

barnettgs: (1. Sep 2005 15:00)

Hmm, cut out ytong for hole and put in sand you mean by that?

I have looked at gallery but these pictures does not give any closeup and also nope of them using starter set 3.

I guess I will have to do my own experiments.

Cephalothorax: (1. Sep 2005 22:55)

The experiences made by other ant-keepers show, that normally people build chambers and passages too big for the ants...
If you put sand/loam in it, they have the possiblity, to build it as big as they need it and broaden it if they need! i myself have got not that much experience in establishing Y-Tong-Nests, but it seems to be the better alternative!

barnettgs: (2. Sep 2005 00:55)

Ok, I understand. By the way, here's my first ytong setup for my first colony:

This is a finished product after my friend's CNC.
http://www.barnett76.co.uk/ant/ytongsetup1.jpg

Cotton set in corridor & water is now soaked up in cotton slowly
http://www.barnett76.co.uk/ant/ytongsetup2.jpg

Inspector ant is checking out new nest!
http://www.barnett76.co.uk/ant/ytongsetup3.jpg

Everything went well and I have topped up a glass of water last nite. This morning, water level in glass, dropped down to just a couple of inches so it is working very well. I think I might need a bigger water container to last more than few days without topping up.

However, there is always odd ant or two seen roaming around ytong nest. The colony is still inside foiled test tube, I don't know if they are willing to move on. From what I was told, Lasius Niger colony are very faithful to their existing nest!

Hope you like this new setup.

As you can see, I have run out of ideas for 2nd nest! :grin: