{"product_id":"carebara-castanea","title":"Carebara Castanea","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eCarebara castanea\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e (Subterranean Ant)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginating from the lush landscapes of South East Asia, \u003cem\u003eCarebara castanea\u003c\/em\u003e is an enchanting species of ants that are sure to captivate both seasoned ant enthusiasts and curious beginners alike. However, due to their high demands as a subterranean species of ant, one should have previous experience with other tropical ants. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe founding stage is known to be challenging and slow, requiring patience and careful observation. However, with the right parameters, one can expect their first 50-100 workers in 4-7 weeks. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eQueens should be kept in a small nest filled with cocoa fibre and clay mixture to allow the creation of their claustral chamber. This environment should provide a temperature of 26-28C and a humidity level between 60-70% (ensuring adequate ventilation). We have also had success in Nursery tubes that are 20mm in diameter. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe queen of \u003cem\u003eCarebara castanea \u003c\/em\u003eis a true marvel, boasting a size that sets her apart from her diligent workers. Measuring around 18-20 mm in length. Her regal presence is complemented by the striking chestnut red coloration, which adds a touch of vibrancy to the entire colony. Workers are much smaller in size, ranging from 1.5-2 mm. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUnlike their cousins \u003cem\u003eCarebara diversa\u003c\/em\u003e which are known for their prowess and marauder behaviour when foraging, \u003cem\u003eCarebara castanea\u003c\/em\u003e exhibitis a subterranean and opportunistic mode of lifestyle, often depending on root aphids as well as dead insects laying on the surface. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAlthough the founding stage may require patience, once workers appear, the growth of your \u003cem\u003eCarebara castanea \u003c\/em\u003ecolony can be quite impressive, with queens laying in excess of 200 eggs in their first sitting during the foundation. To ensure your colony thrives, a bioactive setup is recommended however, they will also adapt to plaster based nests. \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 eggs","offer_id":64619276370269,"sku":null,"price":54.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen |10-20 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":66236645900637,"sku":null,"price":74.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 15-30 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":66236645933405,"sku":null,"price":84.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 50-80 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":66236645966173,"sku":null,"price":94.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/Carebaracastanea_Smith_1858_queen1.webp?v=1778228546","url":"https:\/\/www.antshq.co.uk\/products\/carebara-castanea","provider":"Ants HQ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}