Trichomyrmex dilatatum

Quick Summary

• Difficulty: Medium
• Origin & Habitat: North Africa, specifically Algeria. Found in Mediterranean climate zones with warm temperatures and low to moderate humidity ^[1].
• Colony Type: Likely single-queen (monogyne) based on typical genus patterns, but colony structure is not confirmed by direct observation.
• Size & Growth:
  • Queen: ~4-5 mm (inferred from Trichomyrmex genus, no direct measurements available)
  • Worker: ~2-3 mm (inferred from Trichomyrmex genus, no direct measurements available)
  • Colony: Up to several hundred workers (inferred from related small myrmicine species)
  • Growth: Moderate (based on related species)
  • Development: Unknown, estimated 6-8 weeks at optimal temperature based on related small ants, but actual timing may vary (Development time is speculative, maintain steady warm temperatures to support growth)
• Antkeeping:
  • Temperature: Warm conditions are preferred, aim for 24-28°C. Based on its North African origin, it likely requires consistent heat. A heating cable on one side of the nest creates a gradient. Avoid temperatures below 20°C for extended periods.
  • Humidity: Low to moderate, these ants come from an arid region. Keep the nest substrate mostly dry with occasional light misting. Avoid constant dampness, which can be fatal. Provide a small water source in the outworld.
  • Diapause: Unknown, but likely not required as a North African species. They may reduce activity in cooler months but do not need a true hibernation period. Keep at stable temperatures year-round.
  • Nesting: Likely nest in soil or under stones in arid ground. In captivity, a Y-tong (AAC) or plaster nest works well, as long as the substrate stays relatively dry.
• Behavior: These are tiny, generally non-aggressive ants. Their defense mechanism is a 'smear', they use a modified, flattened stinger to wipe venom onto enemies rather than stinging (typical for the tribe Crematogastrini). Workers are active foragers, likely collecting nectar, small insects, and honeydew. Their small size demands careful escape prevention: use fine mesh and seal all gaps. Activity patterns are unknown but likely crepuscular or nocturnal.
• Common Issues: escape prevention is critical, they are tiny and can get through very small gaps, overhumidity can be fatal, keep the nest area relatively dry as they are adapted to arid conditions, cold temperatures slow or stall development, maintain warm conditions (24-28°C), slow colony growth may test patience, growth rate is speculative and likely moderate at best, very limited availability, this species is rarely available in the antkeeping hobby

Temperature and Care

Based on its North African origin, Trichomyrmex dilatatum likely needs warm conditions to thrive. Aim for 24-28°C for optimal growth and brood development. Use a heating cable placed on top of the nest (never underneath, as this can cause excessive drying) to maintain consistent warmth. Room temperature (20-22°C) is acceptable but expect slower growth. Avoid drafts and temperature fluctuations. No hibernation is required, keep them warm year-round.

Humidity and Nest Setup

These ants are adapted to arid conditions and do poorly in constantly damp environments. Keep the nest substrate relatively dry, with only occasional moisture added. A Y-tong (AAC) or plaster nest works well, both allow you to control moisture. In a test tube setup, keep the water reservoir small and only change the cotton when absolutely necessary. Provide a water dish in the outworld for drinking. The outworld can be slightly more humid than the nest area.

Feeding and Diet

Like most members of the genus, Trichomyrmex dilatatum is likely omnivorous. Offer a constant sugar source (sugar water or honey). For protein, provide small insects like fruit flies, pinhead crickets, or small pieces of mealworm. They may also accept honeydew. Feed small amounts every 2-3 days and remove leftovers to prevent mold. Because of their tiny size, prey must be very small or crushed.

Behavior and Temperament

These ants are small and generally non-aggressive. Their primary defense is a 'smear' venom application (typical for the tribe Crematogastrini), they do not sting in the usual sense. Workers are active foragers and are not a threat to keepers. However, their tiny size makes them excellent escape artists: use fine mesh on all openings and consider a Fluon or oil barrier on the outworld walls. Activity patterns are not well studied but they are likely more active during the evening or night. Colony size is modest compared to larger ant species.

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References