Solenopsis geminata Species Introduction
Claustral. Single queen, sealed founding chamber, no outside food needed for the first generation. This species is typically pleometrotic, meaning they can cooperate during founding to rear their first workers (nanitics), however all but 1 queen will be killed in the end. Some populations are truly polygynous and the colony can maintain multiple queens into maturity.
Used to be widespread across the Southeastern US. Ranges continuously from North Carolina to Argentina and is highly phenotypically variable. Originally one of the primary granivores in the Southeastern US populations. Only "fire ant" Solenopsis species that is truly dimorphic.
Fast-growing, forgiving species that packs a punch when disturbed.
We keep and ship this species.
See Solenopsis geminata coloniesFormicarium
Substrate or hydrostone nests work fine. A secure nest and a fluon barrier for the outworld is recommended for these stinging escape-artists.
Water & Humidity
Relatively humid. Solenopsis geminata are versatile and are good at 'making do' but they do best with quite a bit of moisture. It's best to provide some drier areas as well for seed-storage.
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 will take carbohydrates but it's a relatively minor component of their diet.
Occasional small honey drop in the outworld is fine.
Can optionally setup a liquid feeder with sugar-water or Ant Nectar Mix.
Protein
Very protein-loving. We suggest feeding protein 2–3 times a week. The more frequent the better.
TrapJaw Labs feeds our S. geminata colonies with pre-killed D. melanogaster and D. hydei fruit flies as well as pre-killed and cut mealworms. Once the colony is larger, they will take most feeder insects.
Twice per week. Increase amounts to scale with brood development.
Seeds
Seeds are large portion of this species' diet and they will have expansive seed stores. It's best to provide them a wide variety of seeds.
This species prefers small seeds that are easy for them to handle. The TJL Seed Mix is a good place to start if unsure of what kind to offer.
Seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place or in a freezer.
Once per week
Maintenance
Week 1: Dark, warm, gently humid, and undisturbed. No food yet.
Weeks 2–4: First workers appear. Start protein 2–3×/week. Colony will soon kill all but 1 queen, if there's multiple and they're the pleometrotic variety.
Months 2+: Rapidly growing colony. 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)
- Small honey-water drop
- High humidity
- Gradient 75–90°F