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One month ago I started keeping ants. I have a Lasius niger colonie from Antstore, who is doing fine. I want to start with a second species, but I am undecided as to what type of ant would be best. Therefore I would like to ask this forum for suggestions.
I would like a species that is a good complement on Lasius niger. Meaning that I want it to be as different as can be. Most importantly I would like a species with impressive Major workers, as those really are facinating. I would also highly prefer a larger species of ant (I expect the order to arrive today for the arena and such, which has a 27mm tube). Another thing that seems very interesting, is a species that has larvae that eat by themselves (like Aphaenogaster senilis).
So my question is: is there a species of ant that is large, has impressive majors and senilis’ like larvae? Or do you have other suggestions for my second species?
I currently have my eyes set on Cataglyphis velox, also given my minor experience keeping ants, I don’t want to have a too difficult species.
Thanks in advance for the advice
I would suggest and east Camponotus spec. Something along the lines of Camponotus ligniperda.
Maybe any Messor?
- They are Myrmicinae, so they look very different, while Camponotus look a bit like enlarged Lasius.
- They are very polymorphic, and soldiers are quite big (10-15mm)
- They are partially herbivorous (seeds), which is quite unusual amongst ants
If you go for a Messor, I suggest a subtropical one. My M. minor are alot more active and interesting than my M barbarus.
Besides you don't have to bother about the whole hibernation thingy. :)
But you do want to make sure you can regulate heat and humidity.
Do Messor minor hesperius have to hibernate? Also where can I get them from? (antstore are out of stock)
I think you should try a European Camponotus sp., they tend to be cheaper and easier than Messor.
A Formica sp. would be another good choice.
Antmanant: No, they won't hibernate. They probably have slightly reduced activity though, I hear even some of exotic species stops laying eggs over the winter months, but I havn't had the chance to observe anything like that with my Messor minor hesperius yet. All I know is that they don't hibernate.
Cool, How big are they? and do they sting?
Messor don't sting. Messor minor hesperius are a bit smaller than Messor Barbarus.
Exotic species don't hibernate but they can have some time that the queen stops laying eggs. If the temperature is to low she stops laying. That doesnt mean they need such a period, if you keep the temperature just right she will keep laying eggs.