Myrmicaria transversa

Quick Summary

• Difficulty: Medium
• Origin & Habitat: Endemic to the Philippines, specifically Sorsogon Province on Luzon Island. The type locality is San Roque, Palok Tok Falls, a forested area in the tropical Philippines ^[1].
• Colony Type: Colony structure is unconfirmed for this species.
• Size & Growth:
  • Queen: Unknown, not yet described in scientific literature
  • Worker: 5.51-6.20mm total length ^[1]
  • Colony: Unknown, no colony size data available for this species
  • Growth: Unknown, no development data available
  • Development: Unknown, estimated 6-8 weeks based on related tropical Myrmicinae species (No direct development studies exist for this species. Estimates based on genus-level patterns.)
• Antkeeping:
  • Temperature: Keep at 24-28°C. As a tropical Philippine species, they require warm conditions year-round. A heating cable on one side of the nest creates a suitable gradient.
  • Humidity: Moderate to high humidity (60-80%). The Philippines is a humid tropical environment. Keep the nest substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged.
  • Diapause: No, this is a tropical species from the Philippines and does not require hibernation or winter rest.
  • Nesting: In nature they likely nest in soil or under stones in forested areas. In captivity, a Y-tong (AAC) nest or plaster formicarium with moisture chambers works well. Provide a moisture gradient so ants can choose their preferred humidity.
• Behavior: Myrmicaria species are known for being aggressive and defensive. Workers will readily attack threats and have a potent sting, this species should be handled with caution. They are medium-sized ants that can climb smooth surfaces but are not particularly known for escape artist behavior. Activity level is moderate to high, with workers actively foraging.
• Common Issues: limited availability, this is one of the rarest species in the hobby, only known from a single wild population., no established captive breeding lines, all available colonies would be wild-caught., aggressive behavior and potent stings make them unsuitable for handling-focused keepers., tropical requirements mean they cannot tolerate cool temperatures., lack of species-specific care information means keepers must rely on genus-level guidance.

Appearance and Identification

Myrmicaria transversa workers are medium-sized ants measuring 5.5-6.2mm in total length. The most distinctive feature is the transverse carina (ridge) on the dorsal surface of the propodeum, this is the characteristic that gives the species its name. The head is rounded and medium brown, often darker on top. The gaster (abdomen) is dark brown to almost black, making these ants quite striking. The antennae are yellow, and the legs are very light brown. Workers have abundant whitish setae (hairs) covering their body, with two types, short and long, giving them a somewhat fuzzy appearance. The propodeal spines are moderately long and directed backward. The petiole has a contrasting yellow peduncle (stalk) ^[1].

Natural History and Distribution

This species is endemic to the Philippines, known only from a single locality in Sorsogon Province on Luzon Island. The type specimens were collected at Palok Tok Falls in San Roque. The habitat is likely forested tropical areas at low elevation. The Philippines has a tropical climate with high humidity year-round. This species was formally described in 2018,meaning it was previously confused with other Philippine Myrmicaria species. It differs from related species in having the distinctive transverse propodeal carina, reduced sculpturing on the mesonotum and metapleura, and the lack of striation at the base of the first gastral tergite ^[1].

Housing and Nest Preferences

Since this species is only known from one wild population with no captive breeding, housing recommendations are based on genus-level knowledge of related Myrmicaria species. Provide a nest that can maintain moderate to high humidity, a Y-tong (AAC) nest or plaster formicarium with water chambers works well. The outworld (foraging area) should be escape-proof with smooth walls since these medium ants can climb. Provide a moisture gradient within the nest so workers can self-regulate. The natural nesting environment is likely soil or under stones in forested areas, so include some substrate in the outworld for enrichment. Room temperature is acceptable if kept in a warm room (24-28°C), otherwise use a heating cable on one side of the nest.

Feeding and Diet

Myrmicaria species are omnivorous, similar to other Solenopsidini ants. In captivity, they likely accept protein sources like small insects (fruit flies, small crickets, mealworms) and sugary liquids (honey water, sugar water). Offer protein prey 2-3 times per week and keep a constant sugar water source available. Fresh water should always be accessible. Since this is a newly described species with no captive observations, start with standard ant foods and observe what the colony accepts. Remove uneaten prey after 24-48 hours to prevent mold.

Temperature and Seasonal Care

As a tropical Philippine species, Myrmicaria transversa requires warm conditions year-round. Keep the nest area at 24-28°C. They do not require hibernation or diapause, maintaining consistent tropical temperatures is essential. A heating cable placed on one side of the nest creates a temperature gradient that allows ants to regulate their own body temperature. Avoid temperatures below 20°C as this could stress or kill the colony. The high humidity of the Philippines (typically 70-80%) should be mimicked in captivity.

Behavior and Temperament

Myrmicaria species are well-known for their aggressive defensive behavior and potent stings. Workers are quick to respond to threats and will attack in force. The sting is reported to be painful, this species is not suitable for keepers who want to handle their ants or observe them without protective gear. Foraging activity is likely highest during evening and night hours based on typical tropical ant patterns. Workers are medium-sized and can climb smooth surfaces, so standard escape prevention measures are necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

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References