Aphaenogaster fulva Species Introduction
Claustral and pleometrotic. Queens can found on their own or together. However, once workers arrive, the queens will fight until only one queen is left. No food is needed during founding.
Widespread across the Eastern continental US. Is pretty closely associated with termites.
Forgiving species that can roll with the punches.
We keep and ship this species.
See Aphaenogaster fulva coloniesFormicarium
Substrate, Arboreal, or hydrostone nests work fine. These ants are content in most nests (within reason).
Water & Humidity
Moderately humid. A. fulva often nest in abandoned termite galleries in the wild therefore don't want their nest super humid. A humidity gradient across the nest is often the best strategy.
Recommended to use TrapJaw Labs PVA sponges during founding for improved success rates and more nanitics.
Keep a liquid feeder with water (distilled, purified, or spring) in the foraging area at all times.
Protein
Protein-loving. We suggest feeding protein 2–3 times a week.
TrapJaw Labs feeds our A. fulva colonies with pre-killed D. melanogaster and D. hydei fruit flies. Once the colony is larger, they will take most feeder insects.
Two to three times per week. Increase amounts to scale with brood development.
Carbohydrates
These ants do benefit from carbohydrates.
Occasional small honey-water or sugar-water drop in the outworld is fine.
We recommend providing sugar-water (we use our Ant Nectar Mix) and fresh-water liquid feeders in the outworld at all times.
Maintenance
Week 1: Dark, warm, gently humid, and undisturbed. Do not feed.
Weeks 3–5: First workers appear. Start protein 2–3×/week and offer carbohydrates.
Months 2+: Growing colony. They'll take a lot of food if you want to give it to them.
Diapause is not required for this species.
Care Summary
- Protein 2–3×/week (more is better)
- Sugar via small open drops
- Moderate humidity
- Gradient 75–85°F