barnettgs: Plastic or glass test tube? (9. Aug 2005 18:53)

What are the advantages and disadvantages of plastic and glass test tubes?

I'm thinking of test tubes nest setup and can add more tubes as colony explands. Any problem with them? I think they are easy for keeping the nest humid.

And do you have any pictures of test-tube set up?

Thanks!

Martin S.: (9. Aug 2005 19:21)

Plastic:
http://www.antstore.net/shop/product_info.php?products_id=446

Glass:
http://www.antstore.net/shop/product_info.php?products_id=316

- plastic does not break so quickly and is cheaper.
- glass look out better.

Cephalothorax: (9. Aug 2005 19:46)

Hi barnettgs,
I used to wonder about this, too! I decided glass is the better opportunity, because there´s the much better chance to watch the ants! Most plastic tube are from material which is not so clear to look trough! Although glas tubes can break I think one keeping ants, wouldn´t place them where they can fall down and burst, would they?
But it´s to you to decide...

sobek: (9. Aug 2005 21:26)

I am using plastic test tubes which are looking like glas. Exactly like glas.

i think, they are much better, because they are not able to break.

cyal8er
georg

barnettgs: (9. Aug 2005 21:41)

Thanks for quick replies. Does plastic scratches? I guess I shall go for plastic tubes.

I would love to see the test tubes setup, you have any? What tubes method do you use? Test tube connected by tube or test tube in basin?

Thanks

Cephalothorax: (9. Aug 2005 21:48)

My new Raptiformica sanguinea-queen is kept in one test tube in the arena! To make her start a new colony I took some Formica fusca-brood, kept in an second tube, situated next to the first one... R. sanguinea is now using both of them as nest! Both are in 120 degrees-angle so that the ants can leave the nest heading for food!

barnettgs: (10. Aug 2005 15:45)

Thanks again. I have ordered 20 glass and 40 plastic tubes since they aren't that expensive so it's for me to find out! ;)

mijnstreekoost: (10. Aug 2005 16:52)

I use both plastic and glass tubes and both work fine! Just don't drop the glas ones!

Cephalothorax: (10. Aug 2005 18:54)

Oh sorry I´ve forgotten:
I use plastic tubes, too. They´re perfect to keep in the pocket... The plastic tubes are the reason why I do have Raptiformica now!