67 replies to this topic

[GOCAMPONOTUS]

Those definitely look like alate larvae.

I second this the larvae is way larger than the rest.

[Ernteameise]

Those definitely look like alate larvae.

Well, they had boys last year, so they are mature and I am not surprised, even if they are only a small colony (but acorn ants only form small colonies, so there is that).

[futurebird]

I think this is the first time anyone has gotten acorn ants to move into little nut-shaped spaces like this. I know a lot of people have tried and they are very uncooperative, living in the outworld, under the water feeder, in a gap near the lid. Anywhere but the "acorn" or "walnut"

 

Do these ants make satellite colonies?

[Ernteameise]

I think this is the first time anyone has gotten acorn ants to move into little nut-shaped spaces like this. I know a lot of people have tried and they are very uncooperative, living in the outworld, under the water feeder, in a gap near the lid. Anywhere but the "acorn" or "walnut"

 

Do these ants make satellite colonies?

Well, I think the heat cable was the deciding factor for them moving in.

Yes, this species is polydomus by nature, so in the wild, they will inhabit several empty acorns.

Last year I even did a little walk and did seek them out, and I found several acorns which were close to each other and contained what I assumed each a part of the colony.

They are VERY common where I am from. There is a nest in basically every empty acorn you pick up.

I think that they still inhabit several different corners of the outworld, it appears that they have moved mainly their alate larvae next to the heat cable.

Edited by Ernteameise, April 10 2024 - 10:17 AM.

[Ernteameise]

Yummy chicken!

 

[Ernteameise]

Just managed to take a better picture of the future princesses and princes:

 

[Mushu]

Awesome colony. I've always wanted acorn ants, one of the few smaller ant species I wouldn't mind keeping. I may go acorn hunting this summer. You've given me some ideas.

 

I'm thinking a hydrostone cast floor with a few acorns or walnuts halfway wedged into the floor and against the side of a glass/plastic container may work out. Maybe even a natural setup.

[Ernteameise]

Awesome colony. I've always wanted acorn ants, one of the few smaller ant species I wouldn't mind keeping. I may go acorn hunting this summer. You've given me some ideas.

 

I'm thinking a hydrostone cast floor with a few acorns or walnuts halfway wedged into the floor and against the side of a glass/plastic container may work out. Maybe even a natural setup.

Good luck!

I actually think they are very cute and very easy to keep. Plus, they need only a small amount of space.