Camponotus irritabilis

Camponotus irritabilis is a monogynous ant species, meaning each colony consists of a single queen. The **colony size** can reach up to 5000 workers, making it a relatively large and active community.

This ant species has a medium development rate, ensuring a steady growth of the colony over time. With proper care and conditions, you can witness the progress of these ants as they thrive in their environment.

The size of Camponotus irritabilis ants varies between different castes within the colony:

• Queen: 16-18mm
• Workers: 5-9mm
• Majors: 9-14mm

When it comes to their coloration, these ants have a chestnut brown belly and underside, while their topside is black. This unique combination of colors adds to their beauty and makes them stand out among other ant species.

Camponotus irritabilis ants have a diverse diet, consuming various food sources. Here are some of their preferred nutrition options:

• Food insects: Cockroaches, crickets, and other small insects can be offered as a protein-rich food source for these ants.
• Syrup: A mixture of water and honey in a 4:1 ratio can serve as a sweet treat for the ants.
• Fruits and vegetables: Provide slices or small pieces of fresh fruits and vegetables to give the ants a nutritious and natural food option.
• Jelly: Offering small amounts of jelly can provide the ants with a fun and interesting food choice.
• Cooked chicken: Without salt, cooked chicken can be given occasionally as a protein-rich treat.

By providing a varied and balanced diet, you can ensure the health and well-being of your Camponotus irritabilis colony.

Proper humidity and temperature levels are crucial for the successful maintenance of Camponotus irritabilis ants. Here are the recommended ranges you should aim for:

• Arena Humidity: 60-80%
• Nest Humidity: 60-80%
• Arena Temperature: 21-30°C
• Nest Temperature: 24-28°C

By providing the ants with suitable humidity and temperature conditions, you can create an environment where they can thrive and carry out their natural behaviors.

Camponotus irritabilis is known for its beautiful and unusual coloration. Their chestnut brown belly and black topside make them a visually striking ant species. However, it’s important to note that these ants require regular feeding to maintain their health and activity levels. Their feeding habits make them an engaging species to observe and care for.

When it comes to breeding and housing Camponotus irritabilis ants, several nest options provide suitable environments for their colony:

• Acrylic nests
• Cork nests
• Plaster nests
• Aerated concrete nests

These nest materials can create a suitable habitat for the ants, allowing them to establish their colony and carry out their natural behaviors.

Overall, Camponotus irritabilis is a captivating and visually stunning ant species. With their unique coloration and diverse nutrition preferences, they make for an excellent choice for ant enthusiasts. By providing them with the right conditions and proper care, you can create a thriving colony that will continue to fascinate and delight.