Camponotus darwinii

• Queen: 12-14 mm
• Workers: 5.5–8 mm
• Majors: 9-11 mm

Colour: Black, the whole body is covered with bold golden hair

The Camponotus darwinii ants can be fed with the following:

• Food insects (such as cockroaches and crickets) dead, or live if colony is big
• Syrup (a mixture of water and honey or sugar, with a ratio of 4/3 water:1)
• Fruits and vegetables
• Jelly
• Cooked chicken without salt, shrimps
• Honey

• Arena: 30-50%
• Nest: 40-60%

• Arena: 21-35°C
• Nest: 24-28°C

The Camponotus darwinii ants are known for being covered with dense golden hairs.

Recommended nests for breeding: acrylic, cork, gypsum, aerated concrete.

If you’re looking for a fascinating addition to your ant colony collection, look no further than the remarkable Camponotus darwinii. These ants, known for their distinctive features and captivating behavior, are a joy to observe and care for. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at the unique characteristics of the Camponotus darwinii and provide you with essential information to ensure their well-being and growth.

The Camponotus darwinii ants come in different sizes within their caste system:

• Queens: The queens of Camponotus darwinii measure between 12-14 mm.
• Workers: Workers are 5.5–8 mm in size, diligently carrying out various tasks within the colony.
• Majors: The majors, or larger workers, range from 9-11 mm and play a crucial role in tasks such as defending the colony.

One of the most striking features of the Camponotus darwinii ants is their unique appearance. The entire body of these ants is covered with lustrous golden hairs, giving them an enchanting and distinctive look.

Proper nutrition is essential for the health and well-being of any ant colony, including the Camponotus darwinii. These ants have a diverse diet that includes:

• Insect food: Camponotus darwinii ants can be fed with cockroaches and crickets, ensuring a protein-rich diet.
• Syrup: Offering a syrup mixture of water and honey in ratios of 4:1, 3:1, or 2:1 provides a source of energy and carbohydrates for the ants.
• Fruit and Vegetables: Providing fresh fruits and vegetables gives the ants additional vitamins and nutrients.
• Jelly: A small amount of jelly can serve as a tasty treat for the Camponotus darwinii ants.
• Cooked Chicken: Cooked chicken without salt can be offered as occasional protein-rich food.

Ensuring a varied and balanced diet will promote the overall health and development of your Camponotus darwinii colony.

The environment plays a crucial role in the well-being and growth of the Camponotus darwinii ants. Maintaining optimal humidity and temperature levels is essential for their thriving colony. Follow the recommended ranges below:

Humidity:

• Arena: 30% and 50%.
• Nest: 40% and 60%.

Temperature:

• Arena: 21°C to 35°C
• Nest:  24°C and 28°C

When it comes to breeding Camponotus darwinii, selecting the right nest is essential for their comfort and growth. The following nest materials are recommended:

• Acrylic: Acrylic nests offer excellent visibility, allowing you to observe the fascinating behaviors of your Camponotus darwinii ants.
• Cork: Cork nests provide a natural and environmentally-friendly option, mimicking the ants’ natural nesting materials.
• Gypsum: Gypsum nests offer durability and insulation, creating a stable environment for the ants.
• Aerated Concrete: Aerated concrete nests are porous and allow for effective moisture regulation, meeting the specific needs of the Camponotus darwinii ants.

Choosing a suitable nest will provide your Camponotus darwinii ants with a comfortable and secure home for their ongoing development.

With their striking appearance and captivating behaviors, Camponotus darwinii ants make a wonderful addition to any ant colony collection. By providing them with a balanced diet, an optimal habitat, and the perfect nest, you can ensure the well-being and growth of these remarkable creatures.