Can I keep Lasius peritulus ants?

No. Lasius peritulus is an extinct species known only from fossils that are approximately 34 million years old. No living specimens exist, so it is not possible to keep this species in captivity.

Where can I find Lasius peritulus specimens?

Lasius peritulus is known only from fossil specimens found in the Florissant Formation in Colorado, USA. These fossils are housed in museum collections, including the British Museum. They are not available for purchase or collection by hobbyists.

Are there any living ants similar to Lasius peritulus?

Yes. Lasius peritulus belongs to the Lasius niger-neoniger species group. Living relatives include Lasius niger (common black garden ant), Lasius americanus, and other Lasius species that can be kept as pets. These modern species share the genus but are distinct species that evolved millions of years after Lasius peritulus went extinct.

What did Lasius peritulus look like?

Based on fossil evidence, Lasius peritulus was a small ant similar in size to other Lasius species. The queens showed the 'niger-type' mandible structure, with the basal tooth as large as adjacent teeth and aligned with them. The overall size was small, toward the lower end of the size range for the genus [3].

When did Lasius peritulus live?

Lasius peritulus lived approximately 34.1 million years ago during the Oligocene epoch. The Florissant Formation deposits date to between 37.2 and 33.9 million years ago [1][2].

How were Lasius peritulus fossils formed?

The Florissant Formation was formed from fine lake sediments that buried insects and other small organisms. Over millions of years, these sediments compressed into shale rock, preserving detailed impressions of the ants' bodies. While not as well-preserved as amber fossils, these shale impressions still show important anatomical features that allow scientists to identify the species and its relationships to modern ants.

Can I collect Lasius peritulus fossils myself?

The Florissant Formation is located in Colorado and some areas may be accessible for fossil collecting, but significant finds require scientific expertise and often permits. Most importantly, Lasius peritulus fossils are extremely rare and valuable to science. For antkeepers interested in fossils, purchasing from reputable fossil dealers or visiting museum collections is a better approach than attempting to collect specimens yourself.

What is the closest living ant species to Lasius peritulus?

Lasius peritulus belongs to the Lasius niger-neoniger species group. The closest living species would be others in this group, such as Lasius niger, Lasius americanus, or Lasius neoniger. These species can be found in the antkeeping hobby and would be the best alternatives for those interested in keeping ants from this genus.