Dolichoderus smithi

Quick Summary

• Difficulty: Medium
• Origin & Habitat: Found in Bolivia, Brazil, and French Guiana. Occurs in urban public squares in Brazil, showing tolerance for modified landscapes ^[1][2].
• Colony Type: Colony structure is unconfirmed. Based on typical Dolichoderus patterns, colonies are likely monogyne (single queen), but this requires confirmation.
• Size & Growth:
  • Queen: Size data unavailable
  • Worker: Size data unavailable
  • Colony: Unknown, no colony size data available
  • Growth: Moderate, estimated from genus patterns
  • Development: Estimated 6-8 weeks based on related species at optimal temperatures ^[2] (Timeline is inferred from genus-level data)
• Antkeeping:
  • Temperature: Based on Neotropical origin, keep temperatures around 24-28°C. Start with 22-25°C and observe worker activity ^[1].
  • Humidity: Keep nest substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide a water source and maintain humidity through occasional misting ^[2].
  • Diapause: No, as a Neotropical species, they do not require hibernation. Maintain consistent temperatures year-round ^[1].
  • Nesting: Use Y-tong nests, plaster nests, or test tube setups with moist substrate. Provide dark nesting areas as they prefer dim conditions ^[2].
• Behavior: Dolichoderus ants are generally less aggressive but will defend their colony. Workers are active foragers that search for honeydew and small insects. They can spray formic acid when threatened ^[2]. Their small size means escape prevention is critical, use fine mesh and tight-fitting barriers.
• Common Issues: escape prevention is critical due to their small size, use fine mesh and tight-fitting barriers, limited availability in the antkeeping hobby since they are rarely kept, temperature drops below 20°C can stress colonies and slow development, overfeeding can lead to mold issues in enclosed nest setups, wild-caught colonies may have parasites that are difficult to detect

Housing and Nest Setup

Dolichoderus smithi can be kept in standard ant keeping setups including test tubes with water reservoirs, Y-tong nests, or plaster nests. Given their small size, ensure all connections and barriers are secure. They prefer darker nesting conditions, so consider using an opaque outer wrapper or placing the nest in a shaded area. A small outworld for foraging allows you to observe their hunting and collection behaviors. Provide a shallow water dish and ensure humidity is maintained by occasional misting or a water reservoir connected to the nest ^[2].

Feeding and Diet

Like other Dolichoderus species, these ants are omnivorous with a preference for sweet liquids and protein. Offer sugar water, honey, or diluted honey water as a constant carbohydrate source. For protein, provide small insects such as fruit flies, small mealworms, or cricket pieces. They will also collect honeydew from aphids if available. Feed protein sources 2-3 times per week, removing any uneaten prey after 24 hours to prevent mold. Fresh water should always be available ^[2].

Temperature and Seasonal Care

As a Neotropical species from Bolivia, Brazil, and French Guiana, Dolichoderus smithi prefers warmer temperatures. Maintain temperatures around 24-28°C consistently year-round as they do not require hibernation. A temperature gradient is beneficial, allowing workers to move between warmer and cooler areas of the nest. Avoid placing the setup near air conditioning vents or in rooms that experience significant temperature fluctuations ^[1].

Behavior and Defense

Dolichoderus ants possess a specialized gland system that allows them to produce and spray formic acid as a defense mechanism. While this species is not considered highly aggressive, disturbed workers may release this irritant. The spray can cause discomfort if it contacts skin or eyes, so handle with care and avoid disturbing the colony unnecessarily. Workers are active and fast-moving, with good foraging behavior. Their small size makes them excellent at navigating complex terrain but also means they can escape through small gaps ^[2].

Colony Development

The colony development timeline for this specific species has not been documented. Based on typical Dolichoderus patterns, expect the following: after mating, the queen will establish a nesting chamber and begin laying eggs. The first brood typically develops over 6-8 weeks under optimal warm conditions. The first workers will be smaller than mature workers and will take over foraging duties while the queen continues laying eggs. Colony growth is moderate, a healthy colony may reach several hundred workers over 1-2 years under good conditions ^[2].

Frequently Asked Questions

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References