24 replies to this topic

[ZTYguy]

 

Now kinda unrelated, seeing that the queen is actually temnothorax, but is solenopsis molesta really hard to keep? why?

The only reason I can think of for them being hard is their small size and ability to escape. If you're unprepared then they could escape. Other then that I don't really see a reason. Oh and they can also grow fairly quickly depending on how many queens they have.

 

That is probably the reason it also could be a food or housing/temp problem.

[AntJohnny]

Well I need to redo alot of writing lol. Honestly I never realized how small this species was. I have seen so many Solenopsis molesta in my yard living in lasius nests. Now that I look at them I can see the size difference. I don't know if I will get rid of this species now. I don't believe I have ever raised a polydomous species. At least a colony that is acting this way. I have a 2 queen colony starting that stay at opposite ends of the test tube. Although they will move the eggs together if certain places get to warm or cold. This post wasn't supposed to be posted yet either. I was starting a template for the post on my ride to work. I would have had my state and price other wise. But now I want to start this colony in a plant surrounding by water like ants Canada's island colony. I have started reading about this species and want to learn what I can before hibernation is over. If anyone has an tips please let me know. This is a new species for me and my luck hasn't been great for small species.

[Manitobant]

If you want to do a natural setup id get some acorns and let them move into those. They are called acorn ants for a reason.



Also molesta are polygynous, just like these guys.

[jeffpbalderston]

Might want to further research into "acorn ants" as some species native to California do not live in acorns for example Temnothorax rugatulus live in soil, decaying wood, trees or grassy areas. Mine are in a mini hearth.

[Swirlysnowflake]

delete lol

Edited by Swirlysnowflake, November 9 2020 - 5:40 PM.