26 replies to this topic

[gcsnelling]

I set up an account, but to actually log in, I need my social security number, which I don't just have lying around.

You mean you have not memorized it, what is this world coming to? ? ?

[Mdrogun]

 

Liometopum occidentale

 

 

I am the farthest thing from an Antscanada fan, but Solenopsis invicta is probably the fastest growing monogynous species I have ever kept. Even in the middle of summer, I find that Tetramorium immigrans and the other fast growing species found in the more temperate climates can't keep up. However, I do recognize it is difficult to isolate variables since everyone feeds, heats and overall treats their ants differently. I am the kinda guy that keeps my ants at the highest temperatures they will tolerate, and feeds them until they will no longer eat. Solenopsis invicta are known to be able to take advantage of this kind of environment.

 

That being said, the only way the USDA will allow you, a hobbyist, to move Solenopsis invicta over state lines is if you get a signed note from the president. So good luck with that 

 

I would probably do what Antennal_Scrobe suggested and look around at local greenhouses if you are hellbent on getting species more accustomed to a tropical climate.

 

On December 29th, 2016 my Solenopsis invicta queen had just gotten her first workers. By May 30th, 2017 I had moved them into a Tarheelants Labyrinth, and they were overflowing it. Easily 10,000-15,000 workers. I tried photographing them in this period, but it became difficult because every surface was covered with ants. Here is my attempt:

 

I doubt that Liometopum occidentale can experience that much growth in less than 6 months, but if yours have, please share.

[Antennal_Scrobe]

Liometopum occidentale are some of the prettiest looking ants I know of! Seriously underappreciated in my opinion.

[ANTdrew]

I set up an account, but to actually log in, I need my social security number, which I don't just have lying around.

You mean you have not memorized it, what is this world coming to? ? ?

Yes, that’s a crucial number to memorize.

[dspdrew]

Liometopum occidentale are some of the prettiest looking ants I know of! Seriously underappreciated in my opinion.

 

Wait 'till you smell them.

[Antennal_Scrobe]

 

Liometopum occidentale are some of the prettiest looking ants I know of! Seriously underappreciated in my opinion.

 

Wait 'till you smell them.

Do they smell like T. sessile?

[ponerinecat]

 

 

Liometopum occidentale are some of the prettiest looking ants I know of! Seriously underappreciated in my opinion.

 

Wait 'till you smell them.

Do they smell like T. sessile?

 

Worse. T. sessile smell mild in comparism. I had a queen die and none of my animals would eat it because of its odor. In my opinion liometopum luctosum smell the worst because they release odor from hundred of ants while swarming you.