Monomorium chilense

109,90 zł – 500,00 zł

Number of workers

SKU: AOTA308 Category: Ants Tags: ant, Ant Atlas, ant colony, ant on top, antontop, atlas, Atlas de hormigas, Atlas Mrówek, book, Brachymyrmex laevis, Camponotus aethiops, Camponotus cruentatus, Camponotus petersii, Crematogaster rochai, Queen of ants

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Description

Monomorium chilense is a small, fast-developing ant species native to South America. Workers measure 2–3 mm, and queens about 5–6 mm. They are light to reddish-brown, highly active, and efficient foragers. Colonies grow quickly with warmth and protein-rich diets. Though non-aggressive, they are excellent escape artists and require secure, compact nests. Ideal for keepers seeking a small, adaptable, and low-maintenance species.

Additional information

Behavior	Calm
Difficulty in breeding	For begginers
Origin	South America
The size of ants	Small
Wintering	No Wintering

Description

Monomorium chilense

Colony Type:

Monogynous (single queen colonies are standard)

Colony Size:

Up to 5,000–7,000 workers in mature colonies

Development Speed:

Fast to Medium
(Growth is rapid in warm temperatures and with frequent protein feeding.)

Size:

Queen: 5–6 mm
Workers: 2–3 mm

Coloration:

Monomorium chilense workers are generally light to reddish brown, with a subtle sheen across the exoskeleton. Their small size and uniform coloration make them discreet but efficient foragers. Queens are slightly darker and more robust, with proportionally larger gasters.

Diet:

Insects: fruit flies, small mealworms, cut-up crickets
Sugars: 3:1 or 4:1 sugar/honey to water syrup
Fruits: apple, banana, pear (in small quantities)
Protein sources: protein jelly, cooked unsalted egg white or chicken
Supplement: tiny pieces of fish flakes or crushed dried insects

Tip: Due to their small size, offer finely chopped or soft-bodied food.

Environmental Conditions

Humidity:
- Arena: 40–60%
- Nest: 50–70%
Temperature:
- Arena: 24–30 °C
- Nest: 23–27 °C

Adaptations:

This species is adapted to dry and temperate climates and thrives with moderate warmth and humidity. Despite its tolerance for dry conditions, a lightly hydrated nest area is crucial for brood development.

Unique Traits of Monomorium chilense:

M. chilense is a tiny, agile species known for its highly efficient foraging and flexibility in diet.
Colonies are non-aggressive and usually shy when disturbed, retreating rather than fighting.
Due to their small size, they are excellent escape artists — tight-sealing setups are essential.

Nesting Recommendations:

Mini acrylic or 3D-printed nests with narrow chambers
Test tube setups (ideal for founding stages)
Plaster or YTONG nests with moisture gradient
Avoid large open nests; they prefer compact, low-clearance environments.

Summary:

Monomorium chilense is a small, fast-growing ant species suited for keepers who enjoy observing subtle behaviors and efficient colony dynamics. While visually modest, their adaptability, active foraging, and ease of care make them a great choice for both beginners and experienced keepers looking for a compact species. With proper humidity, secure housing, and consistent feeding, colonies will thrive and grow steadil