Manica rubida – Colony with queen and workers

Description

Manica rubida and our Charter on Ants:
1. Breeding approved by Veterinary Services, carried out by a specialist under certificate of capacity,
2. Guide to the Perfect Ant Farmer offered and health sheet provided,
3. Ants guaranteed without parasites,
4. Health demonstrated by the laying of the queen and the presence of brood during shipping,
5. No “boost” (addition of brood or external workers to sell the colonies more quickly),
6. Guaranteed delivery in good health: partial reimbursement in case of loss of workers, total in case of loss of the queen (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 taken back and costs covered if you wish to part with it (see conditions).
______________________________________________________________________________________________

Description of the species Manica rubida:

Manica rubida is a rarely bred species found in the mountains and countryside of Europe, yet highly valued and sought after for its large size (up to 8mm for workers and 9 to 13mm for queens) as well as for its coloring varying from orange for young workers to darker red.

Aggressive, Manica rubida defends its immediate surroundings and hunts with its stinger, although it may take about 30 seconds to prepare its sting. This is painful but harmless to humans. Manica rubida feeds on sweet liquids, aphid honeydew and small insects.

The development is slow, but compensated by the size of the workers, which makes it possible to appreciate the activity of this species.

A Manica rubida nest has up to 1000 workers at most and from one to several queens (depending on the source).

Fourmiculture recommends:
– A medium to high humidity level,
– A long and cold wintering period recommended (without neglecting humidity and with a good supply of food before wintering, then during wintering with a slight increase in temperature to allow power supply). Around 3 months at 8 to 12°C are recommended.
– A hot spot of 26 to 27°C during the day outside wintering on part of the nest, and 19 to 24°C at night.
– A regular diet, several times a week, based on fresh insects, sweet liquids, jellies, fruits, pollen, meat, etc.

Photo 1: Anstore. Other photos: All rights reserved to Michal Kukla.