Calco: Can you reassure me? (26. Jul 2008 17:49)

Hi, I have just ordered the starter set from antstore along with ants. Just wanted to post here with what, from reading these forums, I am going to do. If someone with ant knowledge could tell me if this is all set up correctly it will reassure me :)

*Image of what I think It should look like*

This is what I have gathered is the correct setup. The sand/loam with the small stones from the starter pack beneath it, with a straw leading down plugged with cotton wool to allow steady moisture release.
Questions:
1. The small stones in the starter pack are the correct stones for this?
2. How big should the layer of stones be (in cm)?
3. Should the straw always have a bit of water in it, or only when needed?
4. Is it better to cover the bottom of the basin in extra sand/loam or extra small stones?

Any other information appreciated

Thanks, Calco.

ratgreen: (26. Jul 2008 19:14)

yer thats fine, put a bit of cotton wool at the top of the straw then take it out when you fill the straw , then put it back in, to stop ants falling and downing.

Calco: (26. Jul 2008 19:58)

Thanks :D

gabranth: (26. Jul 2008 21:06)

the bottom layer should be clay not stones

Calco: (26. Jul 2008 22:13)

so I cannot compact the small stones and let them absorb a little moisture every now and then? coz im not paying £20 for some clay :?
well, I say stones, but its that granulate stuff that comes with the starter, not just like gravel.

gabranth: (26. Jul 2008 22:16)

WTF £20 were are you getting the clay from this is what i got http://www.antstore.net/shop/product_info.php/info/p60_Seramis-granulate-200g.html

edit: and stones don't absorb very much water and when they do they won't keep the ants moist

Calco: (26. Jul 2008 22:28)

well the £20 is antstore postage, im sure there is some other closer place to get it, also you linked a link to this topic ^^.
Any1 know of a closer place, im in east anglia, UK.

gabranth: (26. Jul 2008 22:31)

/fixed and try asking at your local gardening shop they might sell clay

Calco: (26. Jul 2008 22:41)

Anybody know the exact name of the little red stone things that come with the starter pack, because there is no english description and they could be the ones that you linked

gabranth: (26. Jul 2008 22:53)

i don't sorry but the translation from german says 1x 20g clay/tone granulates