Temnothorax unifasciatus

• Monogynous, occasionally oligogynous (1 or few queens)

Colony Size

• Very small colonies, typically 50–200 workers

Development Speed

• Slow, especially in cooler climates

• Colonies grow gradually over months

• Queen: ~4.5–5.5 mm

• Workers: ~2.5–3.5 mm

• Insects (small) – main source of protein

• Honey/sugar water, syrup or nectar

• Sometimes fruits or jelly

• Feed lightly and avoid large food items

• Humidity:

  • Arena: 40–60%

  • Nest: 50–70%

• Temperature:

  • 20–24 °C

• Tolerates moderate environmental variation; prefers dry woodland habitats

• Very shy and discreet

• Nest in small cavities: hollow acorns, bark cracks, rock crevices

• Excellent for micro-formicaria

• Peaceful, non-aggressive species

• Interesting nest relocation and scouting behavior

• Small naturalistic formicarium or acorn-style container

• Keep nest dark and stable

• Avoid over-humidifying and provide safe, tight spaces