3 replies to this topic

[PaxxMantid]

hi all -

 

I have a Camponotus pennsylvanicus, lasius niger, and tetramorum c. colony going, and they are all seeming to slow down a bit lately, so I think it's close to hibernation time. The Camponotus is actually still pretty active, but the others are mostly just hangin out in the nest, not feeding much, etc

 

But, they all have brood, apparently at all stages - eggs, and nearly mature pupae as far as I can tell. 

 

Can they hibernate with the brood? Will it survive? Or is there some way I should try and time it so the new workers emerge before hibernation?

 

thanks!

[ANTdrew]

This is a really detailed post on the Tarheel Ants blog that focuses especially on Camponotus:

 

http://tarheelants.b...-for-your.html

[ANTdrew]

You need to scroll down to the Oct 17th entry “Inducing Diapause.”

[CampoKing]

Long story short, larvae serve several functions in a colony besides saying "Feed me!" They will hibernate with the workers just fine. In a sense, they are "needed" by the colony at all times for some complicated reasons.
Pupae might be a casualty, but it's ok. They'll make more next year

Edited by CampoKing, October 28 2018 - 9:17 PM.