Lasius brevicornis Species Introduction

Species Introduction Claustral and polygynous. Queens can found on their own or together. No food is needed during founding. Widespread across the US, but not commonly seen except during nuptial flights. Small, light colored and general denizens of the undergrowth, these ants keep a low profile but can be stunning in captivity. Forgiving species as long as carbohydrates are provided adequately. Formicarium Substrate or gypsum nests work fine, as long as an adequate moisture gradient is provided. Due to this ant's striking color, use a dark, fine soil in the Substratum nest for great contrast. Slightly warm. We suggest a gradient of 70–85°F across the setup. 3/8" works well for this species. Red plate recommended to encourage activity in this cryptic species. Water & Humidity Fairly humid. L. brevicornis constructs relatively deep nests. A humidity gradient across the nest is the best strategy to keep their brood healthy. Recommended to use TrapJaw Labs PVA sponges during founding for improved success rates. Keep a liquid feeder with water (distilled, purified, or spring) in the foraging area at all times. Carbohydrates These ants really enjoy their carbohydrates; we recommend employing sugar-water, honey-water, and sliced, organic apple dusted with sugar. Occasional small honey-water drop in the outworld can be beneficial. We recommend providing sugar-water (we use our Ant Nectar Mix) and fresh-water liquid feeders in the outworld at all times. Protein They need protein but not a ton, and benefit from small, soft-bodied insects which they can transport into the nest. TrapJaw Labs feeds our L. brevicornis colonies with pre-killed D. melanogaster and D. hydei fruit flies. Once the colony is larger, they will take most feeder insects. Once per week. Increase amounts to scale with brood development. Maintenance Weeks 1-5: Dark, warm, gently humid, and undisturbed. Do not feed. Weeks 6–8: First workers appear. Start protein 1×/week and offer carbohydrate liquid feeder. Months 2+: Growing colony. You'll be astonished at how quickly they consume sugar-water. Diapause is required for this species. Care Summary Protein 1×/week Honey-water via small drops Sugar-water liquid feeder Fairly humid Gradient 70–85°F Once per week: Offer pre-killed protein, clear leftovers within 24h Every other week: Place a small honey-water drop in the outworld Once per week: Top up nest water Twice per week: Check liquid feeders are full