Camponotus barbaricus (Nocturnal Carpenter Ant)

Camponotus barbaricus (Nocturnal Carpenter Ant)
 
This variety of carpenter/sugar ant is found throughout Southern Europe and North Africa. It is considered to be one of the largest species in the EU. Member of this species are typically characterised by their glossy, black gaster and reddish brown body (with hues of yellow underneath). 
 
In the wild, colonies are often found in a variety of settings, from soil based nests to satellite nests under stones to rotten wood stumps. 
 
They are a nimble species of ant when agitated and will try bite! However, this ant is suitable for beginners and experienced alike as they are hardy and relatively quick growing in comparison to other European counterparts such as Camponotus ligniperda. 
 
This species is becoming more popular within the hobby due to their large size (queens can reach 16-17mm) and polymorphic nature (minors, medias and majors). Interestingly, workers will typically start foraging early evening and work until the early hours as Camponotus barbaricus is considered to be mainly notcurnal. 
 
To ensure your colony thrives, it is recommended to provide them with temperature and humidity parameters between 24-26.5C and 40-60% respectively. 
 
It is illegal and strictly frowned upon to release any non-native ants into the wild.