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Formica exsectoides help.

Started By Loops117 , Aug 1 2017 7:31 AM

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12 replies to this topic

#1 Offline Loops117 - Posted August 1 2017 - 7:31 AM

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LocationSouth Lyon, Michigan

Hey guys, just caught what i believe to be a Formica exsectoides queen this morning. Now, i can't find much information on rearing/founding this species.

I do know they're inbreeders, and part of the raider formica group.

Any help would be greatly appreciated

This is the best photo i have so far.

I'll get more photos tonight.

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#2 Offline Connectimyrmex - Posted August 1 2017 - 9:03 AM

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LocationAvon, Connecticut

Beautiful queen!

Look for Formica nests. If you find some, snag a few pupae and larvae. Present those pupae to the queen and you're all set!

(Present some callows as well)

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#3 Offline Loops117 - Posted August 1 2017 - 9:49 AM

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LocationSouth Lyon, Michigan

Beautiful queen!

Look for Formica nests. If you find some, snag a few pupae and larvae. Present those pupae to the queen and you're all set!

(Present some callows as well)

Thank you. I will give this a try tonight.

#4 Offline Loops117 - Posted August 18 2017 - 11:50 AM

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LocationSouth Lyon, Michigan

Was able to finally get her some brood 6 days ago and put her in a test tube.

Day 2, she was connected to the nest.

Day 3, she moved the brood she liked out of the tube and into the nest.

Today is day 6, and she's getting comfortable.

Edited by Loops117, August 18 2017 - 11:51 AM.

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#5 Offline MrWeather - Posted August 18 2017 - 3:24 PM

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LocationBellevue, WA

Don't raiders need a constant supply of brood from other ant nests? So do you have to keep giving it pupa and larvae?

#6 Offline Batspiderfish - Posted August 18 2017 - 5:14 PM

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Definitely not from the exsectoides group (no concavity at the top of the head). That group is not a raiding species group either, but this queen may be part of one -- we would need a better look at the clypeus to tell.

Edited by Batspiderfish, August 18 2017 - 5:18 PM.

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If you've enjoyed using my expertise and identifications, please do not create undue ecological risk by releasing your ants. The environment which we keep our pet insects is alien and oftentimes unsanitary, so ensure that wild populations stay safe by giving your ants the best care you can manage for the rest of their lives, as we must do with any other pet.

Exotic ants are for those who think that vibrant diversity is something you need to pay money to see. It is illegal to transport live ants across state lines.

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Black lives still matter.