Crematogaster hashimi

Quick Summary

• Difficulty: Medium
• Origin & Habitat: Native to Malaysia (Peninsula) and Thailand, inhabiting well-developed tropical forests where they forage on trees ^[1][2].
• Colony Type: Colony structure is unconfirmed for this specific species. Based on genus patterns, likely monogyne (single queen) colonies, though some Crematogaster species can have multiple queens.
• Size & Growth:
  • Queen: Size data unavailable, no documented measurements for queens of this species.
  • Worker: Workers are small, approximately 4-5mm in total length based on genus patterns for similar-sized Crematogaster ^[1].
  • Colony: Unknown for this species.
  • Growth: Unknown, likely moderate based on genus patterns for tropical species.
  • Development: Unconfirmed, no specific development data available for this species. (Tropical Crematogaster species typically develop faster than temperate species when kept warm.)
• Antkeeping:
  • Temperature: Keep around 24-28°C. As a tropical forest species from Malaysia and Thailand, they need warm, stable conditions.
  • Humidity: Keep moderately humid (60-80%). As an arboreal forest species, they prefer humid conditions but not saturated. Provide a water source and occasional misting, but ensure ventilation to prevent mold.
  • Diapause: No true diapause required. As a tropical species, they may show reduced activity during cooler periods but do not need hibernation. Maintain year-round warmth.
  • Nesting: Arboreal species, they naturally nest in trees, under bark, or in hollow twigs. In captivity, they do well in Y-tong (AAC) nests, plaster nests, or naturalistic setups with ample climbing structures. Provide vertical space and climbing materials. Avoid fully enclosed acrylic nests.
• Behavior: Generally peaceful and non-aggressive compared to some ant species. They are arboreal and very active, constantly foraging up and down surfaces. Workers are small but quick-moving. They may be defensive of their nest but are not known for major biting or stinging. Their small size means they can slip through small gaps, so ensure escape prevention is thorough. They are diurnal and actively forage throughout the day.
• Common Issues: humidity control is important, too dry and colonies will struggle, too wet and mold becomes a problem, as an arboreal species, they need climbing structures and vertical space to thrive, wild-caught colonies may be stressed from collection and require careful acclimation, tropical species require consistent warmth, temperature drops can slow or stop brood development, limited species-specific information means care is based on genus knowledge rather than direct studies

Nest Preferences and Housing

Crematogaster hashimi is an arboreal species, meaning they naturally live in trees and woody microhabitats. In captivity, they do best in setups that mimic this arboreal lifestyle. Y-tong (AAC) nests and plaster nests work well, especially those with multiple chambers and good humidity control. Naturalistic setups with cork bark, twigs, or branches allow them to exhibit natural climbing behavior. Provide plenty of vertical climbing structures, they will frequently travel up and down rather than across flat surfaces. A test tube setup can work for founding colonies, but plan to move them to a more spacious formicarium once the colony reaches 20-30 workers. The outworld should include climbing materials like twigs, mesh, or textured surfaces they can grip. ^[1][2]

Feeding and Diet

Crematogaster hashimi is likely an omnivorous species, similar to other Crematogaster. They probably feed on honeydew (the sugary liquid aphids and scale insects produce), small insects, and nectar. In captivity, offer a varied diet: sugar water or honey as a constant energy source, and protein-rich foods like fruit flies, small crickets, mealworms, or other small insects. Feed protein 2-3 times per week, and keep a sugar source available at all times. As an arboreal forager, they may prefer food presented at elevated locations rather than on the ground. Remove uneaten prey after 24-48 hours to prevent mold. Fresh fruit can also be offered occasionally. ^[2]

Temperature and Care

As a tropical species from Malaysia and Thailand, Crematogaster hashimi needs warm conditions. Maintain temperatures between 24-28°C for optimal brood development. They can tolerate slightly warmer conditions (up to around 30°C) but avoid temperatures below 20°C for extended periods. Room temperature in most homes may be too cool, consider using a heating cable or mat on one side of the nest to create a gentle temperature gradient. Place the heating on top of the nest to avoid drying it out. Monitor colony activity, if workers cluster consistently near the warm side, the temperature is appropriate. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations. ^[1]

Humidity and Water

Keep humidity in the 60-80% range. As an arboreal forest species, they prefer humid conditions but not waterlogged ones. Use a water test tube as a constant water source, and check that the nest substrate (if using soil or sand) remains lightly moist. Mist the outworld occasionally, especially if the colony shows signs of dehydration (workers gathering excessively at the water source). Good ventilation is important to prevent mold buildup, avoid completely sealed nests. If using a Y-tong or plaster nest, the built-in water reservoir usually maintains adequate humidity. ^[2]

Behavior and Temperament

Crematogaster ants are known for their 'acrobat' behavior, when threatened, they can raise their abdomen over their head and thorax, allowing them to spray formic acid or reach around to bite. This species is generally less aggressive than some Crematogaster, and they are not known for major stinging. Workers are active and constantly moving, foraging up and down surfaces. They are diurnal and will be most active during daylight hours. Provide them with a spacious outworld with climbing opportunities, cramped or flat spaces can stress them. They are not particularly territorial and typically won't attack other colonies unless defending their nest directly. ^[2]

Frequently Asked Questions

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References