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[rptraut]

Update 02JN25

 

Crematogaster 3 Colony Moved In

 

After being connected to their new Ant Form for two weeks this colony has completed the move and settled into their new housing.   The bottom view under the floating stone is a unique feature of this setup.

 

 

 

 

Please enjoy this tour of the ant shelf in my workshop where I keep many of my  Camponotus, Myrmica, Crematogaster, and Lasius colonies.   

 

 

I welcome your comments

RPT

Edited by rptraut, June 2 2025 - 1:13 AM.

[rptraut]

Update 19AU25

 

I have to apologize for my failure to update this journal in a while.    Following a freak accident while getting off the couch (no kidding), a recurring back problem that I've had all my life, became a constant pain in my lower back with shooting pain down both legs and the occasional muscle spasm, just to add a little variety.    I have osteoarthritis in my lower spine.  For many weeks I could barely walk, and I found it impossible to lift heavy objects, so I had to give up beekeeping.   The garden was neglected somewhat, but I still managed to look after my ant colonies.   I'll file a detailed report on their progress in a few days.    After many visits to an osteopath, my back is on the mend.   I can walk again, pain free, so onward and upward.  

 

 

Leafhopper/Ant Symbiosis

 

Leafhopper nymphs and adults produce honeydew, much like the aphids and scale insects that I've discussed in previous posts.   The following video shows how a Camponotus  colony tends leafhoppers on a sunflower plant growing on our deck.   

 

 

 

 

Leafhopper nymphs

 

 

 

Leafhopper adults

 

 

Your comments are welcome.

RPT

 

 

 

[ANTdrew]

Welcome back, Robert! Your contributions have been missed.