Pheidole Plagiaria: The Small, Aggressive Ants
Are you looking for a unique and fascinating species of ant to add to your collection? Look no further than Pheidole plagiaria. These small, dark brown ants are known for their aggression and their ability to eat grains. In this product description, we will explore the various characteristics of Pheidole plagiaria and provide information on their colony type, size, development speed, nutrition, humidity, temperature, and recommended nests for breeding.
Colony Type: Polygyny
Pheidole plagiaria is a polygynous species, meaning they have multiple queens within their colonies. This unique social structure is one of the defining features of this ant species. With multiple queens, these ants are able to establish large colonies with a population size of up to 50,000 workers. The presence of multiple queens also contributes to their fast development speed.
Size
Pheidole plagiaria has different sizes depending on their role within the colony.
- Queen: The queens of Pheidole plagiaria measure between 7-9 mm, making them slightly larger compared to the workers and majors.
- Workers: The workers are smaller, measuring between 2-4 mm in size. They are responsible for carrying out essential tasks within the colony such as foraging, nursing the brood, and building and maintaining the nest.
- Majors: The majors are the largest individuals in the colony, measuring between 4-6 mm in size. They have larger heads and strong mandibles, which they use for defense and tasks that require more strength.
Color
Pheidole plagiaria ants have a distinct dark brown coloration. This coloration helps them blend in seamlessly with their natural environment, making them adept at finding food and avoiding predators.
Nutrition
Proper nutrition is crucial for the health and well-being of Pheidole plagiaria. These ants primarily feed on food insects such as cockroaches and crickets. They can also be sustained by offering them a syrup made of water and honey in a ratio of 4:1. Additionally, they can be fed with fruits, vegetables, jelly, and cooked chicken without salt. Ensuring a varied diet for these ants will help promote their overall health and longevity.
Humidity and Temperature
Creating the right environment for Pheidole plagiaria is essential for their survival and optimal colony development.
Humidity:
- Arena: The humidity in the foraging area should be maintained between 50 – 70% to mimic their natural habitat.
- Nest: Inside the nest, a higher humidity level of 70 – 80% should be maintained to ensure proper development and care of the brood.
Temperature:
- Arena: The temperature in the foraging area should be kept between 25 – 28 °C to provide a comfortable environment for the ants to search for food.
- Nest: The temperature inside the nest should be slightly lower, between 21 – 26 °C, to simulate their natural nest conditions.
By maintaining the recommended humidity and temperature levels, you can ensure the well-being and productivity of your Pheidole plagiaria colony.
Recommended Nests for Breeding
Choosing the right type of nest for breeding Pheidole plagiaria is crucial for their success and overall health. Here are a few recommended options:
- Acrylic Nests: Acrylic nests provide excellent visibility, allowing observers to witness the ants’ behavior and activities. They are also easy to clean and maintain, promoting a healthy and hygienic environment for the colony. Check out our website for a selection of acrylic nests.
- Gypsum Nests: Gypsum nests are known for their moisture-absorbing properties. These nests provide a stable and consistent humidity level, which is crucial for the development and survival of Pheidole plagiaria colonies.
- Aerated Concrete Nests: Aerated concrete nests offer excellent insulation properties, maintaining a stable temperature inside the nest. This helps create a comfortable environment for the ants and promotes their overall well-being.
When selecting a nest for breeding Pheidole plagiaria, it is essential to consider factors such as visibility, humidity control, and temperature regulation. Providing the right conditions will ensure the success and thriving of your ant colony.
In Conclusion
Pheidole plagiaria is a remarkable species of ant that offers unique characteristics and care requirements. Their polygynous colonies, fast development speed, and small yet aggressive nature make them a fascinating addition to any ant collection. With the right nutrition, humidity, temperature, and nest, you can create a thriving environment for your Pheidole plagiaria colony and witness their fascinating behavior firsthand. Explore the world of Pheidole plagiaria and experience the wonders of these remarkable ants!
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