Scientific illustration of Pheidole coonoorensis ant - showing key identification features including head, thorax, and gaster.

Pheidole coonoorensis

Monogin Non-Parasitic Queen Tidak Gamergate
Nama Ilmiah
Pheidole coonoorensis
Tribe
Attini
Subfamili
Myrmicinae
Penulis
Forel, 1902
Distribusi
Ditemukan di 1 negara
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Pendahuluan

Pheidole coonoorensis is a small ant species endemic to India, specifically recorded in Tamil Nadu . Like all Pheidole species, it has two worker castes: majors with large heads for seed processing and defense, and minors that handle foraging and brood care. The species was elevated to full species status in 2004 from Pheidole indica var. coonoorensis . Body color is brown . Size data for total body length is unavailable, but head measurements for majors and minors are documented in taxonomic studies .

Memuat peta distribusi...

Status berdasarkan negara, dari Kass et al. 2022 & Wong et al. 2023

Asli Invasif Introduksi (dalam ruangan) Dicegat Tidak diketahui
Sumber Data
Rentang Tahun 2000 - 2026

Quick Summary

  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Origin & Habitat: Endemic to India, recorded from Tamil Nadu in the Indomalaya region [1].
  • Colony Type: Based on Pheidole genus patterns, likely monogyne (single queen colonies), but unconfirmed for this species.
  • Size & Growth:
    • Queen: Size data unavailable, no total length measurements in literature.
    • Worker: Size data unavailable, no total length measurements, head lengths are known from taxonomy [2][3].
    • Colony: Unknown, no colony size data available.
    • Growth: Moderate, inferred from Pheidole genus patterns.
    • Development: Estimated 6-8 weeks, but specific timing unknown. (Development time is inferred from related Pheidole species, no specific data for this species.)
  • Antkeeping:
    • Temperature: Keep warm, around 24-28°C, as inferred from tropical habitat.
    • Humidity: Maintain moderate humidity, but specific levels unknown.
    • Diapause: Likely no diapause for tropical species.
    • Nesting: Typical Pheidole nesting in soil or under stones, for captivity, test tubes or Y-tong nests.
  • Behavior: Typical Pheidole temperament, generally peaceful, with majors defending the colony. Escape risk is moderate due to small size.
  • Common Issues: overfeeding can lead to mold problems in test tube setups., minor workers are very small and can escape through standard barriers if not properly sealed., wild-caught colonies may contain parasites that can decimate the colony in captivity.

Housing and Setup

For founding colonies, use a standard test tube setup with water and cotton. Once workers emerge, you can move to a small formicarium. For established colonies, Y-tong nests or naturalistic soil setups work well. Provide a water source and maintain appropriate humidity.

Feeding and Diet

Pheidole coonoorensis is omnivorous. Offer protein sources like small insects and seeds, and constant sugar water or honey. Feed protein 2-3 times per week and remove uneaten food to prevent mold.

Temperature and Humidity

Keep temperatures around 24-28°C using a heating cable on one side of the nest. Maintain moderate humidity by keeping the nest substrate slightly moist but not waterlogged.

Colony Development

After the queen seals herself in, she lays eggs and tends brood. First workers emerge in about 6-8 weeks. Colony growth is slow initially, with majors appearing as the colony grows.

Behavior and Defense

Minor workers handle foraging and brood care, while majors process seeds and defend the colony. They are not aggressive toward humans but may bite if handled. Their small size requires proper barriers to prevent escapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Pheidole coonoorensis to have first workers?

Expect first workers in about 6-8 weeks after egg laying, assuming warm temperatures around 24-28°C.

What do Pheidole coonoorensis ants eat?

They are omnivores that accept protein from insects and seeds, and carbohydrates from sugar water or honey.

Can I keep multiple Pheidole coonoorensis queens together?

This species is likely monogyne, so combining queens is not recommended as they may fight.

What temperature do Pheidole coonoorensis need?

Keep them warm at 24-28°C, as inferred from their tropical habitat.

How big do Pheidole coonoorensis colonies get?

Colony size is unknown due to lack of data, but based on Pheidole patterns, they may reach several hundred workers.

Do Pheidole coonoorensis need hibernation?

As a tropical species, they likely do not require hibernation and may only slow down during cooler months.

Are Pheidole coonoorensis good for beginners?

This species is rated medium difficulty due to small size and slower growth, but once established, care is straightforward.

When should I move my colony to a formicarium?

Move to a formicarium when the test tube becomes crowded or when you see 20+ workers, ensuring proper humidity beforehand.

Why are my Pheidole coonoorensis dying?

Common causes include temperature extremes, humidity issues, mold from overfeeding, or stress from disturbance. Check conditions and adjust care.

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References

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