Temnothorax adustus

Quick Summary

• Difficulty: Medium
• Origin & Habitat: Mexico ^[1]. Specific habitat unknown, likely forest edges, rocky slopes, or other microsites where small cavities exist.
• Colony Type: Unknown. Most Temnothorax species are monogyne (single queen), but this has not been confirmed for this species.
• Size & Growth:
  • Queen: ~5-7 mm (inferred from genus patterns)
  • Worker: ~2-4 mm (inferred from genus patterns)
  • Colony: Unknown. Most Temnothorax species have up to a few hundred workers, but this is unconfirmed.
  • Growth: Moderate
  • Development: Estimated 6-10 weeks at 20-24°C based on related species (No species‑specific data is available, timing depends on temperature and care.)
• Antkeeping:
  • Temperature: Keep stable at 20-24°C. Do not let it exceed 28°C or drop below 10°C.
  • Humidity: Keep the nest substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged, a moisture gradient works well. Avoid allowing the nest to dry out completely.
  • Diapause: Unknown. Because the locality within Mexico is unknown, a winter rest may not be needed. If the colony slows down in cooler months, a mild cooling period (2-3 months at 10-15°C) is probably safe but not required.
  • Nesting: Test tubes are ideal for founding and small colonies. For larger groups, use Y‑tong (AAC) or plaster nests with narrow chambers. Never use acrylic nests.
• Behavior: Docile and non‑aggressive. Workers are tiny and slow‑moving. They have a modified stinger used for smearing venom, not dangerous to humans. Escape risk is high due to their small size: use 0.5 mm mesh and secure all openings.
• Common Issues: tiny size makes escape prevention critical, use fine mesh and tight-fitting lids., no species‑specific research exists, so most advice is inferred from genus patterns., wild‑caught colonies may carry mites or pathogens, quarantine new colonies., overheating or desiccation kills quickly, avoid temperatures above 28°C and dry nests., slow colony growth can test your patience, expect only a handful of nanitics in the first brood.

Housing and Nest Setup

Start in a test tube: fill 1/3 with water and plug it with a tight cotton ball. The narrow tube mimics a natural cavity. For established colonies, use a Y‑tong (AAC) or plaster nest with small chambers. Passages should be narrow enough that workers can touch both walls. Connect to a small outworld with a secure lid, use 0.5 mm mesh or finer on ventilation holes. Acrylic nests are not recommended.

Feeding and Diet

Offer protein small prey: fruit flies, pinhead crickets, or tiny mealworms. Sugar water or honey can be given occasionally. Feed every 2-3 days for a growing colony, removing uneaten prey after 24 hours to prevent mold. A varied diet supports healthy brood.

Temperature and Seasonal Care

Keep at 20-24°C. Avoid direct sun or heating vents. If you choose to provide a winter rest, move the colony to 10-15°C for 2-3 months, but because the species’ native climate is unknown, this may not be necessary. Watch your ants: if they slow down in winter, a cool rest won’t hurt, otherwise, keep them warm year‑round. Never freeze them.

Behavior and Observation

Temnothorax adustus is calm and easy to watch. Workers move slowly and are not aggressive. They have a modified stinger for smearing venom, but it poses no threat to you. Use good lighting and a magnifier to see details. The colony shows increased activity when food is added.

Colony Growth and Development

Growth is slow. A queen may lay 5-10 eggs initially, and the first (nanitic) workers appear after 6-10 weeks. Over months the colony expands, but total size is unknown, most Temnothorax max out at a few hundred workers. Be patient and let the colony grow at its own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

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References