Cataglyphis iberica

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The Cataglyphis iberica is a polygynous ant species with colonies that can contain up to 5000 individuals. They have a very fast development speed. The ants vary in size, with the queen measuring 9-12 mm, workers measuring 4-11 mm, and majors measuring 8-12 mm. They have a black abdomen, back, and head that is dark red in color. Their nutrition consists of insect food, syrup, fruit, vegetables, and jelly.

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We give a 100% guarantee for the delivery of a live queen and colony to the client. You can read more about guarantees on the Guarantees page.

Product care

The most important thing is that you read the temperature conditions, moisture and what to feed the ants. It is important not to introduce too small a colony into a large formicarium, much less just one queen. It’s good if the formicarium is divided by partitions and if the first chamber is very small (such as in our Comfort formicarium). We recommend reading more information about keeping ants in our blogs!

Product details

Difficulty in breeding	For intermediates
Behavior	Fast
Wintering	Wintering
The size of ants	Medium
Origin	Western and South Europe

Description

Cataglyphis iberica: The Fastest Ant Species with Unique Characteristics

If you’re fascinated by ants, you’ll be captivated by Cataglyphis iberica. These ants are not only impressive in their speed but also possess unique characteristics. Being a Polygyny species, Cataglyphis iberica colonies have multiple queens, and with up to 5000 workers, they can quickly establish themselves and grow in numbers.

Size of Cataglyphis iberica

Queen: 9 – 12 mm
Workers: 4 – 11 mm
Majors: 8 – 12 mm

The individuals of Cataglyphis iberica exhibit variance in size. The queen, as the largest in the colony, measures between 9 and 12 mm. Workers range from 4 to 11 mm, while the majors can reach a size of 8 to 12 mm. These ants stand out with their black abdomen and dark red head and back.

Nutrition for Cataglyphis iberica Colonies

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of Cataglyphis iberica colonies. Their diet consists of insect food like cockroaches and crickets. Additionally, you can feed them a syrup made from a water and honey mixture, with ratios of 4:1, 3:1, or 2:1. Other suitable food options include fruits, vegetables, jelly, and cooked chicken without salt. Ensuring a varied diet will provide these ants with the necessary nutrients for thriving.

Humidity and Temperature Requirements

Cataglyphis iberica ants have specific requirements for humidity and temperature. The arena area should have a humidity level between 30% and 50%, while the nest area requires a slightly higher level of 50% to 70%. It is essential to provide optimal temperature conditions as well. The arena should be heated within a temperature range of 25 to 35°C, while the nest area should be maintained between 24 and 28°C. By maintaining ideal conditions, you can maximize the activity and productivity of your Cataglyphis iberica colony.

Distinctive Features of Cataglyphis iberica

Cataglyphis iberica holds the title for the fastest ant species. With elongated legs, they can swiftly move across their environment. For maximum activity levels, it is recommended to heat the arena area where they reside. Warming up the arena creates an ideal environment for these energetic ants to thrive. Another standout feature of Cataglyphis iberica is their clear polymorphism, showcasing distinct physical differences among their workers. This adds to their uniqueness and makes them a captivating species to observe.

Recommended Nests for Breeding Cataglyphis iberica

When breeding Cataglyphis iberica, providing suitable nests is crucial. Recommended nest materials include acrylic and aerated concrete, which ensure a secure and comfortable environment for the ants. Breeding this species can be challenging as most subspecies require donor cocoons, but Cataglyphis iberica is an exception. It has been successfully raised by other breeders from a solitary queen. Aspiring ant owners should be prepared to provide frequent protein and syrup feedings to ensure the success of breeding these fascinating ants.

Cataglyphis iberica is a remarkable ant species known for its speed, unique characteristics, and intriguing behaviors. By fulfilling their specific requirements and providing a suitable environment, you can create a thriving colony of these captivating ants. Take the time to explore more about Cataglyphis iberica and dive into the fascinating world of ant keeping with these amazing creatures.