Aphaenogaster swammerdami

• Queen: 13-18 mm
• Workers: 8-12 mm
• They feature a redhead and thorax, contrasting with a black abdomen, creating a striking appearance that is sure to captivate any observer.

Proper nutrition is crucial for the health and vitality of Aphaenogaster swammerdami colonies. They thrive on a diverse diet that includes various food sources, such as:

• Food insects: Cockroaches, crickets, and other small insects are excellent sources of protein that these ants eagerly consume.
• Syrup: Offering a mixture of water and honey (with a ratio of 4:1) or diluted honey provides a valuable energy source for the colony.
• Fruits and vegetables: Providing fresh fruits and vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals to their diet, contributing to overall well-being.
• Jelly: Offering jelly as a treat can be a delightful and nutritious addition to their food options.
• Cooked chicken (without salt): Satisfying their occasional craving for meat, cooked chicken provides a protein-rich alternative.
• Seeds: Aphaenogaster swammerdami colonies appreciate the addition of seeds to their diet, offering variety and nutrition.

By ensuring a balanced and diverse diet, you will help maintain the health and vitality of your *Aphaenogaster swammerdami* colony.

Creating suitable environmental conditions is essential for the well-being of Aphaenogaster swammerdami ants. Here are the optimal humidity and temperature ranges:

• Arena: Maintain humidity levels between 30-50% in the arena area to mimic their natural habitat and promote healthy behaviors.
• Nests: Maintain humidity levels between 50-70% within the nest area to provide optimal conditions for colony growth and success.
• Arena: Ensure the temperature in the arena area stays between 24-35°C, emulating a warm and comfortable environment for the ants to thrive.
• Nests: Keep the temperature within the nests between 24-28°C, providing a stable and cozy atmosphere for the colony.

Attentively maintaining humidity and temperature conditions will contribute to the well-being and overall prosperity of your Aphaenogaster swammerdami colony.

Aphaenogaster swammerdami colonies require suitable nesting spaces to establish their homes and raise their offspring. Here are some recommended nest materials:

• Acrylic: Offering an acrylic nest provides a transparent view into the intricacies of the colony’s daily life, allowing for fascinating observations.
• Cork: Cork nests offer a natural and aesthetically pleasing environment, recreating a more organic setting for your Aphaenogaster swammerdami ants.
• Gypsum: Gypsum nests are easy to maintain and provide a durable nesting space for the colony, ensuring their long-term comfort and security.
• Aerated Concrete: Providing an aerated concrete nest offers excellent insulation and humidity regulation, promoting an optimal living environment for the ants.

By selecting one of these recommended nest options, you provide your Aphaenogaster swammerdami colony with a suitable and comfortable breeding environment.

In conclusion, Aphaenogaster swammerdami is a captivating ant species that offers remarkable insights into the world of social insects. By understanding their colony type, size, nutrition requirements, humidity and temperature preferences, and recommended nests for breeding, you are well-equipped to provide the optimal conditions for these amazing creatures. Embrace the opportunity to study and care for Aphaenogaster swammerdami ants, and embark on a thrilling journey into the captivating world of ant colonies!