Tetramorium caespitum

€6.90

 

The offensive little ant for beginners

Origin : Spain

Breeding level: Beginners

Geographical distribution: Europe 

Habitat:

  •  Open landscapes
  •  Forest edges exposed to the sun
  •  Dirt roads
  • Urban areas (often in isolated patches)

Colony form: Monogyne (only one queen per colony)

Size : Queen: Size: 7-8 mm - Workers: 2-4 mm - Male: 5-7 mm

Color: Dark brown

Polymorphism : No (same size for each workers, no major in this species)

Food:

  • Mainly insectivorous: mealworms, flies, crickets, etc.
  • sugary liquids
  • A few seeds from time to time

Humidity: 40%-60%

Temperature: 20-28°C

Hibernation: Yes, from early November to March, between 8 and 14°C

Type of nest:

  • Plexiglas nest
  • Plaster nest
  • Reconstituted stone nest

Description:

Tetramorium caespitum is a small, fast-growing species. They are very aggressive towards other ant species and excellent hunters.

Development:

  • Swarming: July to August
  • Foundation: claustral (no feeding)
  • Development: 30 days from egg to worker (depending on temperature).

Colony size:

  • Up to 10,000 individuals
  • The queen can reach 15 years of age.

Notes:

  • Tetramorium caespitum is an active, diurnal species.
  • They are fairly easy to breed and suitable for beginners.
  • Their small size makes them ideal for small spaces.
  • Their aggressive nature can be a fascinating sight for observers.