2 replies to this topic

[BleepingBleepers]

I never really thought about it until today when I have the metal temperature probe from my thermostat inside the enclosure.

 

One or two of the ants are attacking it quite a bit, like darting around like crazy and lunging forward and backing off and darting around, quite crazy. I did rub my finger on it but is it because the probe is emitting electricity and the ants are picking up on it?

 

Do they get use to it or are some of them going to continue reacting to it like that?

 

If it stays that bad I gotta remove it then, I thought I saw someone had a probe in with their ants, didn't know that was a thing.

 

 

Edit: Additional question: Will putting the probe on the magnetic ends of the mini hearths cause any issue, like false readings especially in the long run or damage the probe? I never knew the ants would react so violently to a probe....kinda threw a wrench into my plans a bit.

Edited by BleepingBleepers, August 18 2023 - 1:08 PM.

[Ernteameise]

I know that some species have a magnetic sense which helps them in navigation.

Yes, any electrical current produces magnetic fields and therefore these ants will be able to sense it.

If ants can get used to it?

It is now up to you to find out. I do not think there are any studies about that.

Please report back, so we all can learn.

 

As for the physics and electrician question- no idea.  But my gut tells me it is possible the magnets can influence the probe.

[BleepingBleepers]

Think I've found a solution that might appease to both the ants and me wanting to have the probe inside the formicarium where the temperature actually matters).

 

I'm updating my CA02 journal later and will post a pic. The REAL test / result is about to happen in a few minutes, we'll see.