{"title":"BEGINNER ANTS","description":"\u003cp\u003eNew to ant keeping? Start with our beginner favourites, including common black garden ants, British red ants and European harvester ants. Explore species with different behaviours and care needs, find the right match for you and enjoy getting to know your first pet ant colony.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"camponotus-ligniperda","title":"Camponotus Ligniperda","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color:#000000;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eCamponotus ligniperda \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(Giant European Carpenter Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis variety of carpenter ant originates from Central and North Eastern parts of Europe. It's one of the largest European species of ant with visually pleasing colouration as one can observe hues of red and black patterns across its thorax and legs. Gasters being typically fully black. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSimilarly like the queens, workers are typically red and black. Moreover, they are polymorphic, meaning that workers as small as 3 mm (minors) and individuals as large as 12mm (majors) will develop to coexist within the colony and routinely manage their tasks between them. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, nests are often found amongst stones and decaying wood in the floor\/soil level of mountainous and rural regions of Europe. This species will actually carve out galleries and tunnels out of wood, using just their mandibles and sheer strength to transport these materials out of the nest whilst 'excavating'!\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThey are a relatively fast species of ant and quite aggresive too! This ant that is suitable for beginners. In terms of growth they are quite fast to develop once the colony reaches 50 workers and over. Due to the nature of their natural environment, these ants are active throughout most of the year but would benefit from a hibernation period between December - March. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is \u003cstrong\u003eillegal and strictly frowned upon to release any non-native ants into the wild. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AntsHQ","offers":[{"title":"1 queen \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148562968925,"sku":null,"price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 queen | 2-5 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563001693,"sku":null,"price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 queen | 1-4 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563034461,"sku":null,"price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/Camponotusligniperda1.webp?v=1775930917"},{"product_id":"lasius-flavus-yellow-meadow-ant","title":"Lasius Flavus (Yellow Meadow Ant)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eLasius flavus\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e(Yellow Meadow Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Yellow meadow ant is a small, slender species with a yellow or orange colour. It is typically associated with large, numerous colonies. These colonies are often easily spotted by the mound-like nests they create as they turn over soil, which can reach widths of 1-3 meters.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile \u003cem\u003eLasius flavus\u003c\/em\u003e can be found in both urban and rural areas, they are most abundant in acidic soil, typically found in heathlands, grasslands, and areas surrounding forests.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the UK, they are one of the most common species, alongside \u003cem\u003eMyrmica rubra\u003c\/em\u003e and \u003cem\u003eLasius niger\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, nests are usually located in grassy areas or beneath decaying wood. Interestingly, \u003cem\u003eLasius flavus\u003c\/em\u003e primarily carries out its daily activities underground.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRather than foraging on the surface, workers focus on tasks within the mounds, where a “forest” of plant roots awaits.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese ants have a mutualistic relationship with root aphids, farming them for the honeydew and proteins they produce. In return, the ants protect the aphids from predators and ensure their access to water and nutrients, essentially treating them like livestock.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis species is very docile, making it a great choice for beginners. While their colony development is slow, especially in the early stages, this can be an advantage if you have limited space. \u003cem\u003eLasius flavus\u003c\/em\u003e is a popular species in the ant-keeping hobby because of their great diggingin abilities and small, active, and harmless nature.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThey remain active throughout the year but would benefit from a short hibernation period from December to March.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIt is illegal and strictly frowned upon to release any non-native ants into the wild. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AntsHQ","offers":[{"title":"1 queen \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563296605,"sku":null,"price":6.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"2 queens \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563329373,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"3 queens \u0026 brood","offer_id":66236636528989,"sku":null,"price":19.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 queen | 2-4 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563362141,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 queen | 7-15 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563394909,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 queen | 20-29 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563427677,"sku":null,"price":16.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 40-50 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563460445,"sku":null,"price":30.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 80-100 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563493213,"sku":null,"price":40.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 400-500 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563591517,"sku":null,"price":95.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 2000+ workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563624285,"sku":null,"price":155.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"2 queens | 30-50 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563525981,"sku":null,"price":40.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"3 queens | 50-80 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563558749,"sku":null,"price":55.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/Lasiusflavus1.webp?v=1775931319"},{"product_id":"lasius-niger-common-black-garden-ant","title":"Lasius Niger (Common Black Garden Ant)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eLasius niger\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e (Common Black Garden Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eCommon Black Garden Ant\u003c\/strong\u003e (\u003cem\u003eLasius niger\u003c\/em\u003e) is a small, slender, and highly active ant species that’s ideal for beginner ant keepers. Known for forming large colonies, this species is often discovered beneath paving slabs in gardens and parks, hence the common name, \u003cstrong\u003eGarden Ant. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\t\u003cli\u003e\t\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIdeal for Beginners:\u003c\/strong\u003e Easy to care for and fascinating to observe\u003c\/p\u003e\t\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003e\t\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidespread:\u003c\/strong\u003e Common across urban and rural areas throughout the UK and Europe\u003c\/p\u003e\t\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003e\t\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFast recruitment:\u003c\/strong\u003e Efficient communication and teamwork help them quickly gather food and resources\u003c\/p\u003e\t\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003e\t\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarmless \u0026amp; docile:\u003c\/strong\u003e Non-aggressive and safe to handle in contained environments\u003c\/p\u003e\t\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the UK, \u003cem\u003eLasius niger\u003c\/em\u003e is one of the most commonly seen ants, especially around sweet foods left outdoors. Their colonies can rapidly mobilise hundreds of workers to collect food or capture small prey, making them an excellent species for observing cooperative behaviour.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, these ants typically nest:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\t\u003cli\u003e\t\u003cp\u003eUnder stones and paving slabs\u003c\/p\u003e\t\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003e\t\u003cp\u003eIn crevices of sunlit, south-facing walls\u003c\/p\u003e\t\u003c\/li\u003e\t\u003cli\u003e\t\u003cp\u003eAround low-lying shrubs and plants\u003c\/p\u003e\t\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThey are particularly successful in urban environments, adapting well to man-made structures and disturbed ground.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn captivity\u003cem\u003e, Lasius niger\u003c\/em\u003e colonies grow steadily, especially after reaching around 20 workers. While active throughout the year, they benefit from a \u003cstrong\u003ehibernation period between December and March\u003c\/strong\u003e, which mirrors their natural cycle and supports long-term colony health.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDue to their docile nature, small size, and resilience, they remain one of the most popular choices for new ant keepers.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImportant:\u003c\/strong\u003e It is illegal and strongly discouraged to release any non-native or captive ant species into the wild.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AntsHQ","offers":[{"title":"1 queen \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563657053,"sku":null,"price":4.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 queen |1-3 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563689821,"sku":null,"price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 queen | 6-10 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563722589,"sku":null,"price":10.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 queen | 12-20 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563755357,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen |30-40 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563788125,"sku":null,"price":39.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen |80-100 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148563820893,"sku":null,"price":44.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/Lasiusniger1.webp?v=1775931340"},{"product_id":"messor-barbarus-european-harvester-ant","title":"Messor Barbarus (European Harvester Ant)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMessor barbarus\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e(Harvester Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMessor barbarus, a species of harvester ant, is commonly found throughout Central and Southern Europe. These ants have a mostly black body, with a red or brown head in queens and large major workers. Minor and media workers typically lack this red colouration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHarvester ants? Yes, these ants are true to their name! They form long, continuous lines of workers, sometimes stretching several meters, transporting plant seeds and husks from the collection site (A) back to their nest (B), usually working from dawn till dusk. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBut here's where it gets even more fascinating: the collected seeds aren’t just stored. To make them useful for the colony, media workers remove the pulp from the husk, chew it, and combine it with their saliva and enzymes to create a substance known as \"ant bread.\" This is then fed to the colony's larvae!\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, these ants build nests among low-lying shrubs, ground plants, and undisturbed areas, often near olive trees, at the base of mountain ranges, or in fields on the outskirts of cities where vegetation is plentiful.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMessor barbarus is a generally docile species, making it an excellent choice for beginners. The colony grows quickly once it reaches 20 workers or more. While they are active year-round, these ants would benefit from a short hibernation period, typically from January to March, to mimic their natural environment.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eColonies should be kept between 19-28C and a humidity level between 40-70% (depending on nesting areas). \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is \u003cstrong\u003eillegal and strictly frowned upon to release any non-native ants into the wild. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AntsHQ","offers":[{"title":"1 queen \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148564672861,"sku":null,"price":4.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen","offer_id":64148564705629,"sku":null,"price":4.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 red head queen | 5-8 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148564738397,"sku":null,"price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 red headed queen","offer_id":64148564771165,"sku":null,"price":5.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 bicoloured queen","offer_id":64148564803933,"sku":null,"price":6.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 red head queen \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148564836701,"sku":null,"price":6.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 bicoloured queen \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148564869469,"sku":null,"price":6.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 1-3 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148564902237,"sku":null,"price":8.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 red head queen | 1-3 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148564935005,"sku":null,"price":7.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 5-8 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148564967773,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 12-18 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148565000541,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 queen | 25-30 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148565033309,"sku":null,"price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 queen | 40-50 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148565066077,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/Messorbarbarus1.webp?v=1775931409"},{"product_id":"myrmica-rubra-red-ants","title":"Myrmica Rubra (Red Ants)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMyrmica rubra \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e(European Red Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis red ant, native to the UK and much of Northern Europe, is a popular choice for beginners. Known for its aggressive behavior when provoked, it is equipped with a stinger and will readily use it on both prey and predators. These ants are also excellent diggers, creating intricate tunnel systems in their nests.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe sting’s pain is often compared to that of a stinging nettle, with discomfort typically lasting between 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your body’s reaction.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis species is hardy and adaptable, thriving in temperatures ranging from 16°C to 25°C. However, as they are commonly found in damp environments  such as near peat bogs, meadows by rivers, or inside decaying logs - they do best with a humidity level of 60-70%.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMyrmica rubra is a non-polymorphic species, meaning all workers are usually the same size. However, they are highly polygynous, meaning that colonies contain multiple queens. Field studies have found mature nests containing anywhere from 30 to 40 queens, though the average number is between 5,000 and 10,000 workers. Unlike many other ant species, the queen of this species isn't significantly larger but can be identified by a more prominent thorax and a slightly larger, often darker gaster.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor feeding, this ant species enjoys a wide range of insects, such as mealworms, crickets, and roaches, as well as sugary substances like fruits or nectar\/sugar\/honey water.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOverall, it’s an easy-to-care-for, active, and colorful species that’s great for both beginners and amateur enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIt is illegal and strictly frowned upon to release any non-native ants into the wild. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AntsHQ","offers":[{"title":"1 queen \u0026 brood (2022)","offer_id":64148565360989,"sku":null,"price":15.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"2 queens \u0026 brood (2022)","offer_id":64148565393757,"sku":null,"price":25.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 30-50 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148565098845,"sku":null,"price":18.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"4 queens | 250-300 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148565295453,"sku":null,"price":56.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 queens | 170-220 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148565229917,"sku":null,"price":42.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 queens | 80-120 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148565262685,"sku":null,"price":44.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"2 queens | 90-140 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148565197149,"sku":null,"price":36.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"2 queens | 40-60 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148565164381,"sku":null,"price":34.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 80-120 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148565131613,"sku":null,"price":26.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"6 queens | 400-500 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64148565328221,"sku":null,"price":99.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"10 queens |700-1000 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":66236633448797,"sku":null,"price":184.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/Myrmicarubra1_010f7320-45c2-401f-a97b-7ad81bfddcac.webp?v=1775931547"},{"product_id":"myrmica-ruginodis","title":"Myrmica Ruginodis","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMyrmica ruginodis\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e(European Red Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis red species of ant, native to the UK and much of Northern Europe, is known for its aggressive behaviour when provoked. Equipped with a stinger, these ants will readily sting both prey and potential threats in most situations.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe sting is often compared to the irritation of a stinging nettle and typically causes pain that lasts between 10 minutes and 2 hours, depending on your body’s reaction.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA hardy and adaptable species, this ant thrives in a temperature range of 16°C to 25°C. However, since they are often found in damp microhabitats such as peat bogs, meadows near rivers, or decaying tree logs, they require a humidity level of 60-70% for optimal living conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eMyrmica ruginodis \u003c\/em\u003eis a non-polymorphic species, meaning all workers are generally the same size. Field studies have found mature nests with up to 30-40 queens, though the average nest contains around 5,000 to 10,000 workers. Unlike many other ant species, the queen is not significantly larger than the workers but can be identified by a larger, more pronounced thorax and a slightly bigger, often darker gaster.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn terms of diet, this ant species feeds on a wide range of insects, including mealworms, locusts, and roaches. They also enjoy sugary foods, such as fruit and sugar or nectar and honey.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOverall, \u003cem\u003eMyrmica ruginodis\u003c\/em\u003e is an active, colourful species that is easy to care for and known for digging intricate tunnels, making it a fascinating species to observe. 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In the hobby, variations are often seen, ranging from fully yellow individuals to those with segmented gasters - yellow at the base and black-striped. \u003cem\u003ePlease note: \u003c\/em\u003eyou may receive a queen that is darker or lighter than expected. While we try our best to accommodate preferences, we cannot guarantee specific colouration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLike the queens, worker ants are typically yellow, but newborn callows can be almost translucent. This species is polymorphic, meaning workers can range from as small as 3mm (minors) to as large as 12mm (majors), and each size group has distinct tasks within the colony.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, nests are commonly found in deserts, uncultivated lands, and sandy mountain bases. It's important to note that this species is often misidentified as \u003cem\u003eCamponotus turkestanus \u003c\/em\u003edue to similar anatomical traits.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile this species is generally fast-moving, they tend to be shy when the colony is small. Unlike most ants, they exhibit nocturnal foraging behaviour in the wild, but they adapt well to captivity, as typical indoor lighting is dimmer compared to natural daylight.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor optimal growth, these ants should be kept at a temperature of 26.5-27°C and a relative humidity level of 50-60%.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis species is suitable for beginners as it is hardy and relatively slow-growing. 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It's a  large bulky species of ant, with queens measuring upto 18mm! It's bold, black shiny appearance makes it a visually a rather striking species. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLike the queens, workers are typically black and polymorphic, meaning that workers as small as 4 mm (minors) and individuals as large as 12mm (majors) will develop to coexist within the colony and routinely manage their tasks between them. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, nests are often found amongst stones and decaying wood in the floor\/soil level of rural regions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThey are a fast species of ant when agitated and will spray formic acid! However, this ant is suitable for beginners as very hardy and relatively slow growing. 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Thanks to their attractive appearance, rapid colony development, and hardy, aggressive nature, this species is among the most popular exotic ants kept by hobbyists.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, they commonly nest near the canopy floor of lowland forests in rural regions. They are especially widespread in southwestern China, where scientific sampling frequently finds them in nearly every trap.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese ants are fast and may attempt to bite when disturbed, but they are still considered beginner-friendly due to their resilience and relatively quick growth. Because they come from tropical environments, they remain active year-round and do not require hibernation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor optimal colony health and egg-laying, it's recommended to maintain a temperature between 24–28°C with a relative humidity of 50–65%. 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This species is very common across Europe especially in the mediterranean.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eQueens are dark brown\/black as well as the workers. It's typically associated with very numerous and large colonies that are commonly found when disturbing paving slabs found in gardens or nearby parks. Hence, their name \"Garden ant\". This species is often found colonising both urban and rural areas, making it a very succesful critter.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese are often the first species you will see surrounding any remains of sweet, sugary foods that are left unattended or dropped on the floor. Due to their large colony size and behaviour, they are often able to recruit hundreds of workers in a matter of seconds to pin down prey or transport valuable resources to the nest. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, nests are often found amongst low lying shrubs and ground dwelling plants typically associated with urban habitats. Particularly under stones and slabs or more increasingly, in crevices, such as in exterior, south facing man-made walls. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThey are a generally docile species of ant that is very suitable for beginners  In terms of growth they are quite fast to develop once the colony reaches 20 workers and over. In the ant keeping hobby, these are becoming an increasingly popular starter species as they are very similar in care requirements to \u003cem\u003eLasius niger\u003c\/em\u003e but a little bigger. 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This species has a predominantly black shiny body throughout all their castes, from queen to minor to major. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHarvester ants? Like many species belonging to the \u003cem\u003eMessor \u003c\/em\u003egenus, they actually do just that! These little critters will form several metre non-stop lines of workers carrying plant seeds and husks from A (source of seeds) to B (back to nest). Usually from dawn till dusk! It gets even more interesting! \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHarvested seeds aren't actually just collected and stored. In order to become useful to the colony, the workers (usually those of the media caste) will deshell the pulp from the husk and chew this and combining it with their own saliva and enzymes to create a type of 'ant bread'. This is then fed to their youngsters, the larvae!\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, nests are often found amongst low lying shrubs and ground dwelling plants typically associated with undisturbed land amongst olive trees, at the base of mountain ranges and most abundantly, fields in the outskirts of cities where vegetation is abundant. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThey are a generally docile species of ant that is very suitable for beginners  In terms of growth they are quite fast to develop once the colony reaches 20 workers and over. Due to the nature of their natural environment, these ants are mainly active throughout the year but would benefit from a short period of hibernation from January - March. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is \u003cstrong\u003eillegal and strictly frowned upon to release any non-native ants into the wild. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AntsHQ","offers":[{"title":"1 queen","offer_id":64208845078877,"sku":null,"price":7.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 1-5 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64208845111645,"sku":null,"price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/Messorcapitatus1.webp?v=1776356379"},{"product_id":"pheidole-pallidula","title":"Pheidole Pallidula","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePheidole pallidula \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(Big-headed Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe European Big Headed Ant is renowned for displaying hight activity levels, aggresive\/swarming behaviour as well as a large degree of polymorphism. When keeping Pheidole pallidula, you'll immediately notice the sheer difference in size between the average worker ants and those of the soldier ants. Not to mention that the soldiers' mandibles rival those of the queen!\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe yellow\/orange colouration can be especially appreciated in the soldiers and queens whereas workers tend to be a darker orange\/brownish colour. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn addition to their interesting morphology, colonies of this species have been observed to create several satellite nests in one single habitat! These are often formed by large numbers of workers and brood. Sometimes a queen or two will be found too, although this is quite rare! It's thought that this behavioural adaptation increases the likelihood of survival in the wild! \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLastly, whilst the general care of this species is relatively easy, it's important to note that they are great escape artists due to their small, lightweight nimble nature. 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