{"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. Its adaptability and active nature make it a great choice for both beginners and experienced ant keepers.\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":64148565426525,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"2 queens \u0026 brood (2022)","offer_id":66236633547101,"sku":null,"price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 30-50 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":66236633579869,"sku":null,"price":17.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"4 queens | 250-300 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":66236633612637,"sku":null,"price":54.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 queens | 170-220 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":66236633645405,"sku":null,"price":41.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"3 queens | 80-120 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":66236633678173,"sku":null,"price":44.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"2 queens | 90-140 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":66236633710941,"sku":null,"price":34.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"2 queens | 40-60 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":66236633743709,"sku":null,"price":32.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"1 queen | 80-120 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":66236633776477,"sku":null,"price":24.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"6 queens | 400-500 workers \u0026 brood","offer_id":66236633809245,"sku":null,"price":94.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1058\/4109\/9101\/files\/MyrmicaRuginodis1.webp?v=1775932718","url":"https:\/\/www.antshq.co.uk\/products\/myrmica-ruginodis","provider":"Ants HQ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}