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Tapinoma melanocephalum (Ghost Ants)

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€47.03

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Queen and 21-40 workers - Out of stock

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from €2.33 - InPost Courier (Poland)

Description

Description:

These exotic, invasive, and synanthropic ants are named after their clear and translucent abdomen. They are so light and transparent that they can be "colored" by feeding them with dyed honey. Similar to pharaoh ants, their mating occurs within the nest and can happen throughout the year, resulting in a constant increase in the number of queens. By capturing a portion of the colony, new colonies can be established. Ghost ants are relatively uncommon in European breeding, and a well-developed colony can be considered a rarity. A fully developed colony is incredibly easy to maintain as the ants thrive in various humidity levels and temperatures.

The exact origin of this species is unknown, although it is believed to have originated in Africa or southern Asia. Scientists have shown that Ghost ants lack the ability to adapt to colder climates but can inhabit greenhouses or occasionally residential buildings. In warm climates, their adaptability is significantly higher, as they can nest under stones, in wood, under logs, in plant stems, in building walls, flowerpots, essentially anywhere with a minimum level of moisture provided.

In nature, it is common to observe trails of these ants carrying hundreds or even thousands of offspring from an old nest to a new one, indicating either relocation or detachment of a portion of the colony to establish a new one. They cultivate aphids and consume sweets in households.

We import ants of this species from Malaysia and China.

In Poland, this species is not considered invasive, but in the case of a massive colony, there is a small risk of establishing themselves in residential buildings.

Species: Tapinoma melanocephalum (Ghost Ants)

Difficulty: low

Soldiers: none

Size: queen around 2.5mm, workers 1.3-2mm

Coloration: abdomen and legs - usually transparent, rest of the body - dark brown

Occurrence: in the wild in both Americas, Africa, Australia and South Asia, in homes and greenhouses also in Europe

Nutrition: honey water and feeder insects

Hibernation: none

Temperature: 26-30°C (79-86°F)

Recommended formicarium: ideally a sealed 3D-printed nest, but any other will do