5 replies to this topic

[Bearcoon]

I'm wondering wether its a good idea to go for a more natural Formicarium style were the ants dig in Dirt and such?

Edited by Bearcoon, March 12 2015 - 9:40 AM.

[dean_k]

I personally go for a style that lets me observe the ants better while providing at least minimum comforts for the ants. After all, I am raising ants to observe.

 

It also depends on species. Some just have to dig. Some just have to have soil (or substrate).

[Jonathan21700]

I prefer nests in witch chambers are coated with substrate. They have nice visibility and also look natural.

[Crystals]

There are 2 types of soil nests where ants can dig.  Those that stand vertically and those that lay flat horizontally.

Both types may have issues with mold and ants using soil to block out light (and your ability to see them).

The vertical ones can be prone to tunnel collapses.

 

I personally use preformed nests, usually in grout or firebrick.  I do have one horizontal sand nest, not my exact favorite, but interesting.  I am working on a tutorial on how to make a horizontal sand nest, but it will be some time before I have time to finish it.

 

This link may interest you: http://www.formicult...of-handy-links/

It has a link to lots of pictures of nests, tutorials on how to make your own nest, and many other links.

[rarankhan]

You could buy an omni nest and fill it with sand or another substrate. Some of the substrate might get stuck between the acrylic layers, but overall it would give a nice natural look. 

[Miles]

You could buy an omni nest and fill it with sand or another substrate. Some of the substrate might get stuck between the acrylic layers, but overall it would give a nice natural look. 

Are you selling the omni?

If substrate wedges itself between the acrylic pieces, it will not only scratch the thing to heck, but it will allow more airflow and the nest will dry out quickly.

If you are set on an AntsCanada product, wait for the new series. If not, Tar Heel Ants has formicariums that work with substrate a lot better than an omni would.