Messor minor

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Messor minor is a species of ant that belongs to a monogynous colony type. The colony size is around 10,000 individuals and the development rate is considered medium. The queen measures 10-13mm in size while the workers range from 4-9mm. The ants have a red head and back with a dark body. They primarily feed on insects, syrup, fruit, vegetables, jelly, and cooked chicken without salt.

zł 89.90

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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 begginers
Behavior	Calm
Wintering	No Wintering
The size of ants	Medium
Origin	Western and South Europe

Description

Messor minor – The Perfect Ant Colony for Ant Enthusiasts

If you’re an ant enthusiast looking for a fascinating and unique ant colony to add to your collection, look no further than Messor minor. This incredible species of ant offers a monogynous colony type, a respectable **colony size** of around 10,000 workers, and a medium development rate. Its characteristics make it an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced ant keepers.

Size

Queen: 10-13mm
Workers: 4-9mm
Color: Red head and back with a dark body

The Messor minor ants exude an aesthetic appeal with their vivid red head and back, contrasting beautifully with their dark bodies. The queen, measuring between 10-13mm, can be easily identified within the colony. The workers, ranging from 4-9mm, display the same striking coloration, making them a visually captivating species to observe.

Nutrition

Providing the right nutrition is essential for the well-being and vitality of your ant colony. Messor minor thrives on a diverse diet, including **food insects** such as cockroaches and crickets. Their diet can also include syrup made from a blend of water and honey, with a ratio of 4 parts water to 1 part honey, fruit, vegetables, jelly, and cooked chicken without salt. Offering this balanced diet will ensure the health and longevity of your Messor minor colony.

Humidity and Temperature

Creating the optimal environment for your Messor minor ants is crucial to their success and growth. The recommended humidity levels for these ants are 30-50% in the arena and 50-70% in the nest area. Maintaining these humidity levels will contribute to the overall well-being and comfort of the colony.

Similarly, **temperature** plays an important role in the development and behavior of Messor minor ants. The arena should be kept at a temperature range of 25-30 °C, while the nest area benefits from a slightly lower temperature range of 21-26 °C. By providing these ideal temperature conditions, you can promote a thriving and content Messor minor colony.

Species Traits

Messor minor showcases several intriguing species traits that set it apart from other ant species. While it lacks the pronounced polymorphism seen in Messor structor, it compensates with its larger size and increased aggression. The absence of a soldier caste does not hinder Messor minor’s ability to excel as a species. Its quick development rate is an advantageous characteristic that allows the colony to thrive and grow at a rapid pace.

Recommended Nests for Breeding

Creating a suitable habitat for your Messor minor colony is essential for their happiness and prosperity. Recommended nesting options for breeding include acrylic, cork, plaster, and aerated concrete. These materials provide a safe and comfortable environment for the ants to establish their nest, ensuring a successful and flourishing colony.

In conclusion, Messor minor is an exceptional choice for ant enthusiasts seeking an engaging and rewarding ant colony. With their striking appearance, diverse dietary needs, and unique species traits, these ants offer an unparalleled experience in ant keeping. By providing the ideal conditions and suitable nesting options, you can delight in watching your Messor minor colony thrive and flourish.