Tapinoma erraticum – Colony with Queen and Workers
35,00€
Tapinoma erractium is a species of ant with rapid and frenetic movements, capable of using chemical weapons, good development.
Out of stock
Description
The Fourmiculture Charter for our Tapinoma erraticum ants:
1. Our Tapinoma erraticum ants are bred by a certified specialist, approved by the Veterinary Services.
2. A free "Perfect Ant Keeper's Guide" and health record are provided.
3. Ants are guaranteed parasite-free.
4. Health is demonstrated by the queen laying eggs and the presence of brood upon shipment.
5. No "boosting" (adding brood or external workers to sell colonies faster).
6. Guaranteed healthy delivery: partial refund in case of worker loss, full refund in case of queen loss (if delivered within 48 hours).
7. Shipping possible from -12°C to +40°C thanks to our optional insulated packaging.
8. Species present in France, non-invasive and not threatened.
9. Colony buyback and costs covered if you wish to dispose of it (see conditions)
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Tapinoma erraticum and other Tapinoma species closely resemble Lasius, with which they can be confused. However, they belong to a completely different subfamily whose species develop quickly and move very briskly on the ground in search of food.
Tapinoma erraticum is unique for several reasons. For example, its habit of changing nests regularly, thus creating long ant highways, with each worker carrying the brood and protecting the queen until the new nest.
Conquering and aggressive, it secretes a chemical weapon capable of disrupting communications with other species. Humans didn't invent anything new…
We also note its constant search for warmth for optimal development. It readily settles under stones or in wood well exposed to the sun and, if necessary, builds earthen sunbathing areas where it can store the brood in the warmest conditions. Despite UV rays being usually harmful to brood, it may also deposit them outdoors in full sun to stimulate their growth.
The nymphs are not protected by a cocoon, unlike the species of the subfamily Formicinae (Lasius, Camponotus…).
Queen size: approximately 5 mm.
Worker size: approximately 3-4 mm.
Temperature: 27°C, slightly lower at night.
Hibernation: 45 days at 15°C.
Food: sugary liquids, jellies, insects, etc.
Humidity: Low to Medium.
This species is incompatible with frozen ant colonies, as with all queen colonies!
Photo: Tapinoma sessile, a species closely related to Tapinoma erraticum. © Ajay Narendra, gallery here.