Monomorium carbonariumSpecies Introduction
Claustral. One or more queens, sealed founding chamber, no outside food needed for the first generation.
Widespread across the eastern and central US. Generalists that make-do with a wide range of conditions. Extremely polygynous ants capable of having hundreds of queens within a colony. These ants will readily produce male and female alates which then mate within the nest producing more egg-laying queens for the colony! These tiny generalists can be found scavenging insect carcasses, or be found collecting nectar from flowering plants.
Fast-growing, forgiving species capable of having hundreds of queens! Keep them well fed and expect to see lots of alate production as the colony grows.
Formicarium
Substrate or hydrostone nests work fine. A clear nest with thin chambers shows off these tiny ants quite well. A secure nest and a fluon barrier for the outworld is recommended for these tiny escape-artists.
Water & Humidity
Moderately humid. are quite versatile Monomorium carbonarium and are good at 'making do'.
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
Carbohydrates are recommended for Monomorium carbonarium. Sugar feeder in the outworld 24/7.
Occasional small honey drop in the outworld is fine.
It is recommended to use the TJL Liquid Feeder for these tiny ants as the mesh prevents accidental drowning.
Protein
Very protein-loving. We suggest feeding protein 2–3 times a week. The more frequent the better.
TrapJaw Labs feeds our M. carbonarium colonies with pre-killed D. melanogaster and D. hydei fruit flies as well as pre-killed and cut mealworms. These ants will take most feeder insects.
Two to three times per week. Increase amounts to scale with brood development.
Maintenance
Week 1: Dark, warm, gently humid, and undisturbed. No food yet.
Weeks 2–4: First workers appear. Start protein 2–3×/week. Provide liquid feeder in the outworld.
Months 2+: Rapidly growing colony. Alate production in the coming months. They'll handle a lot of protein and grow accordingly.
Diapause is not required for this species.
Care Summary
- Protein 2–3×/week (more is better)
- Sugar via liquid feeder
- Moderate humidity
- Gradient 75–85°F
- Wait for more queens