Scientific illustration of Polyrhachis trispinosa ant - showing key identification features including head, thorax, and gaster.

Polyrhachis trispinosa

Monogyn Non-Parasitic Queen Nein Gamergate
Wiss. Name
Polyrhachis trispinosa
Untergattung
Myrmothrinax
Tribus
Camponotini
Unterfamilie
Formicinae
Autor
Smith, 1861
Verbreitung
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Einleitung

Polyrhachis trispinosa is a medium-sized ant species native to Sulawesi, Indonesia. Workers measure 6.45-7.66 mm in total length and are dark in color, with three spines on the petiole . Queens come in two sizes: normal macrogynes at around 9.88 mm and smaller microgynous queens at 7.56-7.81 mm . This species belongs to the Polyrhachis aequalis species-group and has been collected from fogging samples in cacao plantations, suggesting arboreal nesting habits . Distribution includes Tondano, Sulawesi .

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Status nach Land, von Kass et al. 2022 & Wong et al. 2023

Heimisch Invasiv Eingeschleppt (innen) Abgefangen Unbekannt
Datenquellen
Jahresbereich 2000 - 2026

Quick Summary

  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Origin & Habitat: Sulawesi, Indonesia, tropical habitats, collected from cacao plantations indicating arboreal or semi-arboreal nesting [1][2].
  • Colony Type: Based on Polyrhachis patterns, likely monogyne (single queen), but no species-specific data confirmed [1].
  • Size & Growth:
    • Queen: ~9.88 mm (macrogynes), ~7.56-7.81 mm (microgynes) [1]
    • Worker: ~6.45-7.66 mm [1]
    • Colony: Unknown, no colony size data available
    • Growth: Moderate, inferred from typical Polyrhachis growth patterns
    • Development: Estimated 6-8 weeks based on typical Formicinae development at tropical temperatures [1] (Development time is estimated, specific data for this species is unavailable)
  • Antkeeping:
    • Temperature: Keep at 24-28°C, inferred from tropical habitat [1]
    • Humidity: Keep substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged, based on tropical environment [1]
    • Diapause: No, tropical species from Sulawesi do not require hibernation [1]
    • Nesting: Arboreal or semi-arboreal, provide elevated nest options like Y-tong or naturalistic setups with vertical chambers [1]
  • Behavior: Polyrhachis ants are generally less aggressive, workers are moderately active and forage vertically and on ground level. Escape risk is moderate due to size, standard barriers work well [1].
  • Common Issues: humidity too low or too high can cause stress or mold [1], temperature below 24°C may slow development [1], mold from overwatering or poor ventilation [1]

Housing and Nest Preferences

Polyrhachis trispinosa appears arboreal based on collection from cacao canopy [1]. Provide nest options with vertical orientation, such as Y-tong (AAC) nests or naturalistic setups with elevated chambers and branches [1]. Ensure good humidity retention with some ventilation to prevent mold [1].

Temperature and Humidity Requirements

Keep the nest area at 24-28°C, using a heating cable to create a gentle gradient [1]. Maintain humidity with moist substrate or a water reservoir, avoiding waterlogging [1]. Mist occasionally and monitor condensation [1].

Feeding and Diet

Offer a varied diet: sugar sources like honey water constantly, and protein like dead insects 2-3 times per week [1]. Remove uneaten food after 24-48 hours to prevent mold [1].

Colony Structure and Development

Workers are 6.45-7.66 mm with three petiolar spines [1]. Queens have two morphs: macrogynes at 9.88 mm and microgynes at 7.56-7.81 mm [1]. Colony growth is moderate, with slow initial growth during founding [1].

Behavior and Temperament

Workers are moderately active and forage vertically and on ground level [1]. The petiolar spines may aid defense, but this species is not aggressive toward keepers [1]. Escape prevention is important for medium-sized ants [1].

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Polyrhachis trispinosa to raise first workers?

Exact time is unknown, but estimated 6-8 weeks from egg to worker at tropical temperatures [1].

What do Polyrhachis trispinosa ants eat?

They are omnivorous: sugar sources constantly and protein 2-3 times per week [1].

Do Polyrhachis trispinosa ants need hibernation?

No, they are tropical and do not require diapause [1].

What size colony do Polyrhachis trispinosa colonies reach?

Colony size data is unavailable for this species [1].

Are Polyrhachis trispinosa ants good for beginners?

This species is rated Medium difficulty and is not commonly available, related species may be easier [1].

What type of nest is best for Polyrhachis trispinosa?

Arboreal nests with vertical orientation, such as Y-tong or naturalistic setups [1].

Can I keep multiple queens together?

This species is likely monogyne, combining unrelated queens is not recommended [1].

Why are my Polyrhachis trispinosa dying?

Common issues include incorrect temperature or humidity, mold, or stress from wild-caught adjustment [1].

Where is Polyrhachis trispinosa found?

Endemic to Sulawesi, Indonesia, specifically Tondano [2][1].

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References

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Dieses Caresheet ist lizenziert unter CC BY-SA 4.0 .