Polyrhachis rastellata

Polyrhachis Rastellata: The Agile Ant Colony

Polyrhachis Rastellata is a fascinating species of ant known for its fast development speed and polygynous nature. With a colony size of up to 10,000 workers, these ants are highly efficient and organized in their activities. Let’s delve into the various aspects of this intriguing ant species.

Size and Color

The queen of Polyrhachis Rastellata measures around 9-11mm, while the workers are slightly smaller, ranging from 7-9mm. Their bodies are predominantly black, with striking orange legs that add a touch of vibrancy to their appearance.

Nutrition and Feeding

Polyrhachis Rastellata ants have a diverse diet that includes food insects such as cockroaches and crickets. They also enjoy syrup made from a mixture of water and honey, with a ratio of 4:1 or 3:1. In addition, they consume fruits, vegetables, jelly, and even cooked chicken without salt. Their versatile diet ensures that they receive the necessary nutrition for survival and growth.

Humidity and Temperature

These ants thrive in specific humidity and temperature ranges. The nest should ideally have a humidity level between 70-90%, creating a moist environment that the ants prefer. On the other hand, the arena or foraging area requires a slightly lower humidity of 50-70%.

As for temperature, the arena should be maintained at a constant temperature of 26-30 °C. The nest, where the queen resides along with her workers, requires a slightly wider temperature range of 22-30 °C to support their activities and survival.

Species Features

Polyrhachis Rastellata ants are known for their unique nesting habits. They construct their nests on trees and other plants, utilizing the help of larvae. This cooperative effort allows them to create robust and secure nests for their colony. The ants are highly active and exhibit a level of aggression, which contributes to their success in defending their territory and resources. They share similarities with another ant species called P. abdominalis.

Recommended Nests for Breeding

For successful breeding and colonization, it is important to provide suitable nests for Polyrhachis Rastellata ants. Several types of nests have proven to be effective in catering to their needs:

• Acrylic Nests: These nests are made from transparent acrylic material, allowing you to observe the ants’ activities. They provide a secure and hygienic environment for the colony to thrive.
• Cork Nests: Nests made from cork are a popular choice for breeding Polyrhachis Rastellata ants. The porous nature of cork provides excellent ventilation and moisture retention, creating a comfortable habitat for the colony.
• Plaster Nests: Plaster nests offer a stable and robust structure for the ants. They can be customized to create multiple chambers and tunnels, simulating a natural environment for the ants.
• Aerated Concrete Nests: These nests are made from lightweight aerated concrete, which provides insulation and durability. They can be easily modified and expanded as the colony grows.

Choosing the right type of nest for your Polyrhachis Rastellata colony is essential to support their growth and well-being. Each nest material offers unique advantages, so it’s important to consider the needs of the ants and their natural behaviors.

In conclusion, Polyrhachis Rastellata ants are a remarkable species that possess agility, aggression, and an efficient colony structure. By providing them with the proper nutrition, humidity, and temperature, and selecting the right nests for their breeding, you can create an optimal environment for their growth and development. Observing these ants as they build their intricate nests and engage in constant activities is truly a captivating experience.