Solenopsis xyloni Species Introduction

The only arid-climate loving 'fire ant' in North America. 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. Widespread across the Southwestern US. Generalists that make-do with a wide range of conditions. Polymorphic workers that continuously range in size. Fast-growing, forgiving species that packs a punch when disturbed. Formicarium Substrate or hydrostone nests work fine. A secure nest and a fluon barrier for the outworld is recommended for these small escape-artists. Fairly warm. We suggest a gradient of 75–90°F across the setup. 1/2" works well for this smaller species. Water & Humidity Moderately humid. Solenopsis xyloni are quite versatile and are good at 'making do' but they do still need some moisture. 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. xyloni 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 This species will readily store and consume if the opportunity presents itself but it is not a major component of their diet, typically. You can offer them seeds if you'd like to but it's completely optional. 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 every two weeks 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) Sugar via small drops Moderate humidity Gradient 75–90°F Thrice per week: Offer pre-killed protein, clear leftovers within 24h Once per week: Place a small honey-water drop in the outworld Every other week: Top up nest water