{"title":"INTERMEDIATE ANTS","description":"\u003cp data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eReady to take your ant keeping to the next level? Discover fascinating species with more specialised care requirements, unique behaviours and exciting challenges for growing your experience.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"myrmicaria-brunnea","title":"Myrmicaria Brunnea","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color:#000000;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMyrmicaria brunnea\u003c\/em\u003e (Bicoloured Arched Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA soil nesting ant found in the South East Asian region (typically near mountainous areas). The species can actually establish themselves in a variety of habitats - from fruit gardens; sparse forest; swamps or even wastelands - puts us to shame! \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTheir diet consists of fruits, to cooking wastes; they’ve also been found to scavenge on dead insects. Due to the climate of the region this species does not hibernate. Notably in its appearance the species has a distinctive down-curved abdomen; with spines on the thorax. Initially, almost seeming as if the ant had something wrong with it! \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWorkers resemble the Queen in colour, being a chestnut brown. To defend itself it uses a defense of a chemical nature, raising its abdomen and spraying a secretion towards the threat. You have been warned! (It's actually not that bad unless you are a mealworm).\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAll in all, an attractive bicoloured exotic ant that is realtively easy to keep between 21-24C and a humidity ranging 60-70%. \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\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AntsHQ","offers":[{"title":"1 queen |30-40 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155276542301,"sku":null,"price":54.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155276443997,"sku":null,"price":34.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 2-4 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155276476765,"sku":null,"price":34.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 6-12 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155276509533,"sku":null,"price":39.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/Myrmicariabrunnea1.webp?v=1775990873"},{"product_id":"pheidole-noda-big-headed-asian-ant","title":"Pheidole Noda (big Headed Asian Ant)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003ePheidole noda \u003c\/em\u003e(Big headed Asian Ant) \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Asian Big Headed Ant is renowned for displaying hight activity levels, aggresive\/swarming behaviour as well as a large degree of polymorphism. When keeping Pheidole noda, 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\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! 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. Therefore, a reliable escape prevention system shpuld be in place.\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":64155277033821,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"5 queens | 250-300 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155277001053,"sku":null,"price":104.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 queens | 160-200 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155277164893,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 queens | 120-150 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155276968285,"sku":null,"price":79.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 queens | 20-30 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155276935517,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"2 queens | 120-150+ workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155277132125,"sku":null,"price":54.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"2 queens | 60-80+ workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155277099357,"sku":null,"price":49.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen + brood","offer_id":64155277066589,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 7-15 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155276804445,"sku":null,"price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 20-29 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155276837213,"sku":null,"price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 40-50 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155276869981,"sku":null,"price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 80-100 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155276902749,"sku":null,"price":34.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 400-500 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":64155277197661,"sku":null,"price":69.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/Pheidolenoda1.webp?v=1775991332"},{"product_id":"polyrhachis-dives","title":"Polyrhachis Dives","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color:#ffffff;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003ePolyrhachis dives\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e(Silver\/Gold Asian Weaver Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 'Old World' species is popular in the ant keeping hobby due to its metallic sheen apperance. This is normally characterised by shiny yellow\/silver banding across its gaster (rear). The contrast between this and its grey-black colouration throughout the rest of the body makes it a rather attractive species to observe.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWeaver ant? What's that about? Similarly but not to the same extent, \u003cem\u003ePolyrhachis dives\u003c\/em\u003e exhibits a very interesting behaviour of weaving in their daily nest activities, especially amongst larger colonies past the 30-50 worker stage in which brood is abundant. This is due to the reason that the worker caste of these ants will actually use their larvae's silk spinning properties by enticing them to create a web-like substance. This is then used for a a whole range of \"household chores\" - from collecting wood shavings to create a secure nest to intertwining chambers and tunnels that the ants will actually walk through!\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, nests are often found amongst low lying shrubs and ground dwelling plants and foliage. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLastly did you know that these ants actually don't have a stinger! Instead they have something we Entomologists call an 'acidopore'. From this concavity at the rear of the ant, they can spray and secrete formic acid! So when they get a little agitated or aggresive you will be able to observe their natural aggresion pose in which the ant bends her gaster forwards towards its predator\/intruder. Almost like a pistol! \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis being said, they are a generally docile species of ant that is suitable for beginners looking to get into exotic ant species or more experienced enthusiasts alike. In terms of growth they are quite fast to develop once the colony reaches 30 workers and over. Due to the nature of their natural environment being tropical, these ants are active throughout the entire year, thus not requiring hibernation. \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\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AntsHQ","offers":[{"title":"Standard product","offer_id":64155277230429,"sku":null,"price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/Polyrhachisdives1_77281d1e-6d39-4bcb-b87e-6f4f9e9ef67f.webp?v=1775991498"},{"product_id":"camponotus-singularis","title":"Camponotus Singularis","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color:#000000;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eCamponotus singularis\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e(Arboreal Asian Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis 'Old World' species is popular yet relatively rare in the ant keeping hobby. Its distinctive bicoloured nature - red head and black\/grey body combined with its large size; 20mm queens and 10-18mm workers make them a fascinating and striking ant to keep. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCamponotus singularis are often found arboreally. This means that more than often, colonies are found residing within the mid and upper sections of tropical rainforest canopies. Specifically a large range, from Nepal to Borneo to Java. Large majors can be seen descending the canopy in search of food and resources for the nest, particularly at evening and night due to their partly nocturnal behaviour. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, nests are often comprised of no more than 500 - 1000 individuals. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLastly did you know that these ants have a peculiar scent. If one were to pick up a worker ant, distinctive floral notes can be easily noted. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThey are a generally docile species of ant that is suitable for beginners looking to get into exotic ant species or more experienced enthusiasts alike. In terms of growth they are quite slow to develop due to their large size however, once the colony reaches 50 workers and over, colony size seems to increase at a quicker rate. Due to the nature of their natural environment being tropical, these ants are active throughout the entire year, thus not requiring hibernation. \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":64619276042589,"sku":null,"price":64.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/Camponotussingularis21.webp?v=1778228508"},{"product_id":"camponotus-wasmanii-mutilarius-sweet-aroma-ant","title":"Camponotus wasmanii mutilarius (Sweet Aroma Ant)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eCamponotus wasmanii mutilarius\u003c\/em\u003e (Sweet Aroma Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis hairy variety of carpenter ant originates from Asia, particularly tropical habitats of China. It's a very colourful species with hues of red, orange and black throughout its body. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLike the queens, workers are typically red\/orange and black. This species is commonly referred to as Camponotus \"xiangban\". This Chinese word refers to the sweet aroma produced by incense. In the ant keeping hobby, it's typically called this due to the pleasant smell this ant produces when handled. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the wild, nests are often found amongst the forest floor, nesting between shrubs and roots in the soil. Moreover, this is a relatively rare species of ant found in S.East Asia.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThey are a slow growing species of ant yet display fairly large levels of aggresion when threatened. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDue to the tropical nature of their natural environment, these ants are active throughout the year and do not require hibernation.\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\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"AntsHQ","offers":[{"title":"1 queen \u0026 brood","offer_id":65734267634013,"sku":null,"price":27.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen |1-3 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":65734267666781,"sku":null,"price":37.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 7-15 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":65734267699549,"sku":null,"price":39.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 17-25 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":65734267732317,"sku":null,"price":47.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/0f671a_69eb1e7ec9cc47c3bf021937527f1bcd_mv2.jpg?v=1788007885"},{"product_id":"pogonomyrmex-barbatus-american-harvester-ant","title":"Pogonomyrmex barbatus (American Harvester Ant)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePogonomyrmex barbatus\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e (American Harvester Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOne of the most popular harvester ant species, the American, Orange Harvester ant. This species is commonly found throughout the Southwestern states of the US . This species has a predominantly orangeish\/red body (gaster and thorax) and a bulky head. This is especially true in the queens and large major workers of this species. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHarvester ants did you say? Like many species belonging to the \u003cem\u003ePogonomyrmex \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 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 in arid enviornments. I.e. 'Chaparrales'. Colonies are often chracterised by their large nest entrances in the wild. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThey are an active and aggresive species of ant that can sting if provoked.  They are a relatively slow growing species. However, with the right temperature and protein levels, colonies can quickly develop and gain momentum after reaching 30-40 workers.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDue to the climate of their natural environment, these ants are mainly active throughout the year but would benefit from a short period of rest during the cooler months of November - January.  \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":65734268551517,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 1-3 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":65734268584285,"sku":null,"price":50.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/0f671a_cf8a395f2c474425a984f681f48f5118_mv2.jpg?v=1788007892"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/collections\/Intermediate.svg?v=1792154754","url":"https:\/\/www.antshq.co.uk\/collections\/intermediate-ants.oembed","provider":"Ants HQ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}