Pheidole spathifera

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Pheidole spathifera is a polygynous ant species with colony sizes of up to 10,000 workers. They have a fast development speed and range in size from 7-9 mm for the queen, 3-4.5 mm for workers, and 4-7 mm for majors. They are reddish brown with a dark abdomen and require a diet of insect food, syrup, fruit, vegetables, jelly, and cooked chicken.

zł 149.90

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We give a 100% guarantee for the delivery of a live queen and colony to the client. You can read more about guarantees on the Guarantees page.

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	Aggressive
Wintering	No Wintering
The size of ants	Small
Origin	Eastern and South Asia

Description

Pheidole spathifera: The Aggressive Army with Beautiful Polymorphism

Discover the fascinating world of Pheidole spathifera, a species of ant known for its aggressive nature and beautiful polymorphism. As a member of the Pheidole genus, these ants can be found in various parts of the world. This comprehensive product description will provide you with insights into the characteristics, care requirements, and benefits of keeping Pheidole spathifera as pets.

Colony Type: Polygyny

Pheidole spathifera colonies have a unique polygynous structure, which means they have multiple queens. This allows the colony to grow and expand at a faster rate than colonies with a single queen. With a larger population, these polygynous colonies offer ant enthusiasts the opportunity to observe a thriving and active ant community.

Colony Size and Development Speed

A well-established Pheidole spathifera colony can reach an impressive size of up to 10,000 workers. The queen, measuring 7-9 mm in length, stands as the largest member of the colony. Worker ants range from 3-4.5 mm in size, while majors can reach sizes of 4-7 mm. This variation in size, known as polymorphism, adds to the uniqueness of these ants.

Pheidole spathifera colonies exhibit a remarkable development speed, quickly multiplying and reaching notable numbers in a short period. Observing the rapid growth and expansion of these colonies can provide a thrilling experience for ant enthusiasts.

Appearance and Coloration

Pheidole spathifera ants boast stunning reddish-brown exoskeletons, with their abdomens appearing darker in contrast. This exquisite coloration enhances the beauty of this species. Not only do these ants exhibit polymorphism in terms of size, but also in appearance, with unique variations seen among workers and majors.

Nutrition Requirements

Meeting the proper nutrition requirements is crucial for the health and well-being of your Pheidole spathifera colony. These ants primarily feed on insect food like cockroaches and crickets. You can supplement their diet with syrups such as a water and honey mixture, using ratios like 4:1, 3:1, or 2:1.

In addition to insect food, Pheidole spathifera can benefit from a diverse range of food sources. Fresh fruits, vegetables, jellies, and cooked chicken without salt can be offered to ensure a balanced and nutritious diet. Providing a variety of food options will help keep your ants healthy and active.

Arena and Nest Requirements

Pheidole spathifera requires specific conditions for their arena and nest. The arena, where the ants spend their active time, should maintain a temperature range of 21-30°C. The nest, where the colony rests and lives, should be kept at a slightly higher temperature between 24-30°C. Providing the appropriate temperature range is essential for the overall well-being and productivity of the colony.

When it comes to the type of nest, Pheidole spathifera can thrive in various materials. Recommended nest materials for breeding these ants include acrylic, cork, gypsum, and aerated concrete. These materials offer suitable conditions for the ants to establish and expand their colony. The choice of nest material will depend on personal preferences and resource availability.

Species Features and Benefits

Pheidole spathifera offers several unique features and benefits for ant enthusiasts. Their aggressive nature, coupled with the formation of large army-like colonies, makes them captivating to observe. The rapid rate at which they multiply allows for a dynamic and active ant community, providing ample opportunities for study and observation.

One of the standout characteristics of Pheidole spathifera is their beautiful polymorphism. From the size variations among individuals to the distinct appearances seen in workers and majors, these ants exhibit a fascinating array of traits. This polymorphism adds to the aesthetic appeal and visual interest of keeping these ants as pets.

Conclusion

Pheidole spathifera is a captivating species of ant, known for its aggression, rapid development, and beautiful polymorphism. By providing the right conditions and nutrition, you can create a thriving colony of these ants. Whether you are an ant enthusiast or a biology student, caring for and observing Pheidole spathifera will provide valuable insights into the fascinating world of ants. With their active nature and striking characteristics, Pheidole spathifera promises an engaging and rewarding ant-keeping experience.