3 replies to this topic

[boxofshovels]

Hello, I have a Camponotus pennsylvanicus colony that is in it's second year. Should I be concerned that the colony size is only at 15 workers? During this summer, my colony has hardly grown much. What type of nest I use is in the picture. They are connected to a test tube where they access their food and water. They are feed every other day. I feed them honey, maple syrup, and deli turkey. I am thinking of switching them to wax worms for their protein. Thank you!

[bmb1bee]

It's possible the turkey isn't giving them the nutrition they need. I'd opt for dubia roaches since most of my Camponotus in the past liked them, even the picky ones. Termites are also pretty good feeders if you have access to them, since nearly all ants will accept them.

[L.H]

Camponotus mostly eat liquid protein such as the hemolymph(blood) from bugs. This may be the reason they have not grown too much on the turkey. I would switch to bugs for protein, especially fruit flies(the wingless ones from pet stores), since my camponotus go crazy for them. They are also easy to culture and grow fast so they are a good option.

[ANTdrew]

What temperature are they kept at? Increasing their temperature and adding more insect protein sources like crickets, mealworms, dubia roaches, and fruit flies will get them growing again. Save the deli turkey for your own sandwiches.