Oecophylla longinoda

Oecophylla longinoda – African Weaver Ants

Welcome to our Oecophylla longinoda, also known as African Weaver Ants, product description. This species of ants is known for its unique features, fast development, and demanding nature. If you are a dedicated ant enthusiast or looking to start your own ant colony, these ants are a great choice.

Colony Type and Size

Oecophylla longinoda ants exhibit a polygynous colony structure, meaning they have multiple queens. This allows the colony to grow rapidly and achieve impressive sizes ranging from 100,000 to 500,000 worker ants. With such a large population, these ants are sure to captivate your attention and provide a fascinating ant-keeping experience.

Size and Color

The queen ants of Oecophylla longinoda measure between 12-16 mm in length, while the worker ants are smaller, ranging from 4-9 mm. The ants have a unique coloration, with their bodies ranging from yellowish brown to brown and displaying a strong chest. This distinctive coloration adds to their visual appeal and makes them a standout species for ant enthusiasts.

Nutrition

Oecophylla longinoda ants have specific dietary requirements for their optimum health and growth. Their diet primarily consists of insect food, including cockroaches and crickets. Additionally, they require syrup, such as a mixture of honey and water in different ratios (4:1, 3:1, 2:1), to provide essential carbohydrates. Fruits, vegetables, jelly, and cooked chicken without salt can also be included in their diet to ensure a varied and balanced nutrition.

Humidity and Temperature

To create a suitable environment for Oecophylla longinoda ants, it is important to maintain specific humidity and temperature levels. In the arena area, the humidity should range between 30-60%, while in the nest, it should be kept between 50-70%. As for temperature, the arena should be maintained at 21-35°C, while the nest should be slightly warmer, ranging from 24-28°C. Paying attention to these environmental factors will ensure the well-being and thriving of your ant colony.

Species Features and Behavior

Oecophylla longinoda ants are known for their aggressive nature and remarkable nest-building skills. They construct their nests by weaving leaves of flowers and trees together, creating intricate and secure structures. Witnessing their innovative building techniques and observing their colony dynamics can provide endless entertainment and educational value.

However, it is important to note that this species is demanding and requires careful attention and care. Due to its complexity, there is a risk of the colony experiencing a higher mortality rate. It is crucial to understand these factors before making a commitment to keep Oecophylla longinoda ants.

Recommended Nests for Breeding

When setting up the ideal habitat for Oecophylla longinoda ants, there are certain types of nests that are recommended for their breeding. Gypsum nests and aquarium setups with live plants are excellent choices as they provide a suitable environment for the ants to thrive. These nests offer the necessary space, humidity, and temperature control for the colony’s growth and development.

In conclusion, Oecophylla longinoda, the African Weaver Ants, are a fascinating and captivating species for ant enthusiasts. With their polygynous colony structure, fast development, and intricate nest-building skills, keeping this species can provide a rewarding ant-keeping experience. It is important to remember that they require specific dietary needs, humidity, and temperature control to ensure their well-being. By taking all these factors into consideration and providing the recommended nests, you can create an optimal environment for the growth and success of your Oecophylla longinoda colony.