Lasius neonigerSpecies 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 US. Found in every continental state. They get their common name, "Turfgrass Ants", because they are common-place in grass lawns and other disturbed habitats.
Forgiving species as long as carbohydrates are provided adequately.
Formicarium
Substrate or hydrostone nests work fine, as long as an adequate moisture gradient is provided.
Water & Humidity
Fairly humid. L. neoniger constructs relatively deep nests. A generous humidity gradient across the nest is 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.
Carbohydrates
These ants really enjoy their carbohydrates.
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.
TrapJaw Labs feeds our L. neoniger 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