Polyrhachis illaudata

Quick Summary

• Difficulty: Medium
• Origin & Habitat: Native to South and Southeast Asia in wet tropical and subtropical forests, typically at elevations from 500-1200 meters. Found in primary forest habitats and restricted to these areas, not present in secondary forests or plantations ^[4][6][7].
• Colony Type: Monogyne (single queen per colony) with polydomous nesting, colonies spread across multiple connected nest sites rather than a single nest ^[3].
• Size & Growth:
  • Queen: Size data unavailable, no direct measurements in research literature
  • Worker: 8.7-10.5 mm ^[1][2]
  • Colony: Up to several hundred workers, estimated based on polydomous nature ^[3]
  • Growth: Moderate
  • Development: Estimated 6-8 weeks at 24-28°C, inferred from genus patterns (Cocoon stage is present as confirmed by field observations ^[3]. Development time is inferred since direct measurements are not available.)
• Antkeeping:
  • Temperature: Keep at 24-28°C as a starting point, this is a tropical species from warm forests ^[8].
  • Humidity: Keep nest substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged, mimicking damp tropical forest conditions ^[8].
  • Diapause: No, this is a tropical species that does not undergo hibernation ^[8].
  • Nesting: Flexible nesting preferences, in nature they nest in soil or under tree bark. For captivity, use a test tube setup for founding colonies. As colonies grow, provide a formicarium with multiple connected chambers to accommodate polydomous behavior ^[3][8].
• Behavior: Workers are active during the day (diurnal) and forage on the ground, in shrubs, and in trees. They use group recruitment to food sources and are not particularly aggressive but will defend their nest. Escape risk is standard for medium-sized ants ^[5][9].
• Common Issues: colonies may fail if humidity drops too low, these are tropical ants adapted to consistently damp conditions, polydomous nesting means they may try to establish secondary nests outside the main formicarium if given the opportunity, wild-caught colonies may carry parasites including the zombie ant fungus (Ophiocordyceps) which has been documented infecting this species ^[11][12], slow growth compared to faster-developing tropical ants may frustrate beginners, they may not accept test tube setups long-term if they prefer the flexibility of multiple nest sites

Housing and Nest Setup

For founding colonies, use a standard test tube setup with damp cotton. Once workers arrive (typically 6-8 weeks), keep them in the test tube for several months. As the colony grows to 20+ workers, move to a formicarium with multiple connected chambers to accommodate their polydomous nature. Ensure nest material stays damp but not waterlogged ^[3][8].

Feeding and Diet

Polyrhachis illaudata is omnivorous with a preference for carbohydrates. Offer sugar water or honey water constantly, and provide protein sources like small insects 2-3 times per week. Feed during daylight hours for best acceptance ^[5][10].

Temperature and Seasonal Care

Keep temperatures at 24-28°C year-round, this species does not require diapause. If room temperature drops below 22°C, use a heating cable to create a gentle gradient ^[8].

Colony Structure and Polydomous Behavior

Colonies maintain multiple nest sites connected by trails. In captivity, workers may establish secondary nests within their enclosure, this is normal behavior. The colony has a single queen, but she may be in one nest while workers maintain others ^[3][5].

Health Concerns

This species is susceptible to the zombie ant fungus Ophiocordyceps unilateralis. Maintain good hygiene, avoid introducing wild ants or soil from infected areas, and quarantine new colonies ^[11][12].

Nuptial Flights and Reproduction

Nuptial flights occur after heavy rain, typically around midnight in July. Alates are observed near lights approximately 100 meters from nest entrances. Maintain warm temperatures and well-established colonies to encourage reproduction ^[8].

Frequently Asked Questions

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References