Temnothorax pseudandrei

Quick Summary

• Difficulty: Hard
• Origin & Habitat: Southwestern United States: Arizona and California. It nests under the bark of Fremont cottonwood (*Populus fremontii*) and desert willow (*Chilopsis linearis*) in riverine gallery forests and desert habitats ^[1][2].
• Colony Type: Colony structure is not well-documented. It is likely monogyne (single queen), based on related *Temnothorax* species, but this has not been confirmed.
• Size & Growth:
  • Queen: ~3.5-4 mm (inferred from *Temnothorax* genus) ^[1].
  • Worker: ~2-3 mm (inferred from *Temnothorax* genus) ^[1][2].
  • Colony: Not documented. Typical *Temnothorax* colonies reach dozens to a few hundred workers (inferred from genus patterns).
  • Growth: Moderate (inferred from genus patterns).
  • Development: 6-10 weeks (estimated from related *Temnothorax* species) ^[1]. (Development time is estimated based on related *Temnothorax* species. Specific data for *T. pseudandrei* is not available.)
• Antkeeping:
  • Temperature: Room temperature (20-24°C) during the active season. In winter, provide a diapause period at 10-15°C for 2-3 months. This species comes from a temperate region with seasonal variation ^[1].
  • Humidity: Moderate. As an arboreal bark nester, they prefer slightly dry conditions. Keep the nest material barely moist, mist occasionally but allow it to dry out between waterings. Avoid constant dampness ^[1].
  • Diapause: Yes. Native to temperate Arizona and California. Reduce temperature to 10-15°C for 2-3 months (e.g., November-February). Do not feed during diapause, keep minimal moisture available ^[1].
  • Nesting: Arboreal nester, they live under tree bark. Use a vertical setup with pieces of cork bark, twigs, or a Y‑tong (AAC) nest with narrow chambers. Avoid large, open chambers, they prefer tight crevices. A naturalistic bark setup works best ^[1].
• Behavior: Peaceful and non‑aggressive, typical of small *Temnothorax*. They are active foragers. Escape prevention is critical, at 2-3 mm they can slip through tiny gaps. Use fine mesh (≤0.5 mm) and seal all connections.
• Common Issues: escape prevention is absolutely critical, they are tiny and will find any gap, slow colony growth may tempt overfeeding, stick to small, regular portions, wild‑caught colonies may carry parasites, quarantine new colonies, arboreal setup may be unfamiliar, bark or vertical Y‑tong nests work best, limited care information, much is inferred from related species and may not be precise

Housing and Nest Setup

Because Temnothorax pseudandrei is arboreal, your setup should mimic tree bark ^[1]. The easiest option is a vertical piece of cork bark with small crevices, or a Y‑tong (AAC) nest with narrow chambers. They dislike large, open spaces, tight, dark chambers make them feel secure. Connect a small outworld with fine ventilation mesh (≤0.5 mm). If using a natural bark setup, moisten it slightly but never soak it. A vertical orientation helps them settle, as they naturally nest off the ground.

Feeding and Diet

Like most Temnothorax, T. pseudandrei is omnivorous. In the wild they likely eat small insects, honeydew, and nectar. In captivity, offer protein 2-3 times per week (fruit flies, pinhead crickets, or springtails) and keep a constant supply of sugar water, diluted honey, or small drops of honey. Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours to prevent mold. Portion sizes should be tiny, a drop of sugar water and a few fruit flies is plenty for a small colony.

Temperature and Seasonal Care

Keep the colony at room temperature (20-24°C) during spring through fall ^[1]. This species lives in a region with mild winters but distinct seasons, so a winter diapause is needed. From late fall to early spring, lower the temperature to 10-15°C for 2-3 months. You can achieve this by moving the nest to an unheated garage, basement, or a wine cooler. Do not feed during diapause, only provide minimal moisture (e.g., a damp cotton ball). Return to room temperature in early spring to resume activity.

Handling and Escape Prevention

Escape prevention is the number‑one priority. T. pseudandrei workers are only 2-3 mm and can squeeze through gaps that larger ants ignore ^[2]. Use fine stainless steel mesh (≤0.5 mm) on all ventilation holes. Seal every connection with fluon or a similar barrier. When observing or moving the colony, work over a white tray or paper to spot escapees. Although they are relatively slow, never underestimate their ability to find an exit. Excellent containment is non‑negotiable.

Colony Establishment

Founding behavior for T. pseudandrei is not documented. If you acquire a queen, assume she is claustral (the norm for Temnothorax) and seal her in a small, dark chamber. Do not disturb her for at least 6 weeks, the first workers typically emerge after 6-10 weeks at room temperature (estimated from related species). Once you see workers, connect a tiny outworld with food. Colony growth is gradual: you may reach up to 30 workers in 6-12 months. If you obtain an established colony, transfer it gently into an arboreal nest and let it settle for a few days before feeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

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References