Camponotus texanus (Texas Carpenter Ant)

Camponotus texanus (Texas Carpenter Ant)
 
A medium sized, aggressive species of ant found throughout Texas. Camponotus texanus colonies are land dwelling and are often found nesting within decaying parts of living trees as well as hollow crevices within wood and stones in Juniper & Oak Woodland.
 
Like other species of belonging to the genera Camponotus spp. , large majors with powerful mandibles will develop as the colony matures. These impressive worker ants can reach almost the same size of the queen at 12-13mm!
 
Mature colonies can often be found to contain upto 2,000-3,000 individuals. However, such sizes takes many years to establish due to their relatively slow growing nature, especially during the early years of foundation. 
 
This bicoloured species of red & black ant is mainly active throughout the day and is very efficient at evading predators due to their long-legged nature, especially in larger worker/major ants. 
 
To ensure colonies thrive, it is recommended that they are kept at a relatively high temperature between 25-28C and moderate humidity level of 50-60%. 
 
Beware, queens and workers can spray formic acid when agitated! (... so cool right?).
 
It is illegal and strictly frowned upon to release any non-native ants into the wild.