Camponotus barbaricus

The nimble giant ant

Origin : Spain

Geographical distribution: Southern Europe and North Africa

Breeding level: Beginner

Habitat : Sunshine seekers! Look for Camponotus barbaricus ants on sunny lawns, under pine trees or near bushes. These versatile dwellers are all about finding the perfect spot.

Colony form: monogenous (only one queen per colony)

Colony size: up to 20.000

Size : queen: 14-16 mm, workers: 8-13 mm

Color : Mostly black, a little brown

Queen lifespan: unknown

Food:  Principally sweet liquids, jellies... but needs proteins too with  fruit flies, little parts of crickets or cockroaches...

Humidity: 50-60%.

Temperature:  25 - 30°C.

Hibernation: Yes, from late november to early march at 8°c/14°c

Nest type:  Ytong, plaster, wooden, 3D printed nests.

Nimble Giants: Unveiling the Camponotus barbaricus

Agile Acrobats: Meet the Camponotus barbaricus, a European champion in ant agility! Their workers are surprisingly slender and graceful for their size.

Sized for Every Job: Like many Camponotus ants, they come in two sizes: the minor workers, swift scouts, and the major workers, built for more heavy-duty tasks. Both have a sweet tooth, expanding their gasters (abdomens) to store sugary liquids for the colony.

European Giants: Don't let their grace fool you – Camponotus barbaricus are one of South Europe's biggest ant species! These speedy explorers spend hours tirelessly venturing out to discover their surroundings.

Thriving Colonies: Get ready for a bustling household! Camponotus barbaricus colonies grow rapidly, especially during the warm European summer months.