Mystrium camillae – Dracula Ant Colony
Colony of Mystrium oculatum, Asian Dracula Ant.
You will like:
Exceptional morphology with scythe-shaped mandibles,- Slow movements, but lightning attack, fastest movement in the animal kingdom,
- Unique behavior with consumption of the vital fluid of its own larvae.
- Free delivery and healthy warranty by 24 -hour carrier (> € 200 purchase in the European Union)
Description
Discover the Dracula Ants: Mystrium camillae
Presentation of the species: Mystrium camillae
The Dracula Ant, its Latin name Mystrium camillae, is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. Our specific species, Mystrium camillae, is the only species native to Vietnam. This ant is distinguished by its unique “social feeding by suction” behavior, hence this evocative nickname. In fact, it does not hesitate to suck the hemolymph (“blood”) from the larvae through a small voluntary wound, which then heal very quickly. The ants can thus feed the insect larvae, then feed on their hemolymph. In the event of famine, all the brood can be eaten by ants that are both Dracula, but also cannibals as a last resort...
These ants are also known for their amazing abilities: they have one of the fastest jaws in the animal kingdom, used for hunting and defense purposes. According to National Geographic, this would be the fastest animal movement ever recorded, with a speed of around 200km/h, later measured at 320km/h by the Royal Society Open Science. A final “clap” for their prey, notably the dangerous centipedes that Dracula ants like to hunt. In breeding, we recommend fruit flies which represent no risk for your precious protected animals. If you are an enlightened amateur, this rare species will make you proud and reveals the details of its behavior under a USB microscope for the pleasure of observations.
This species is adapted to hot and humid climates. It is advisable to feed them several times a week with small proteins, in particular fruit flies which you will find in stores like Maxizoo or online at Aqualiment for example, as well as sweet liquids. Fairly unrestrictive, it forms small colonies of a few hundred workers and presents a rather slow development.
Main Features :
- Size of workers: 5 to 8 mm.
- Diet: Mystrium camillae is primarily carnivorous and opportunistic. They appreciate live or freshly dead prey and a regular supply of sweet liquids.
- Difficulty level: Medium. These ants require a well-controlled environment to thrive.
- Nest type: Prefer dark, damp galleries, simulating underground conditions. Example: Ant Caver.
Recommended living conditions:
- Temperature: 22 to 26°C.
- Humidity: Very high on the nest part, with a drier area to avoid mold.
- Nest recommendation: Natural type nests are suitable, example: Ant Caver from Fourmiculture .
Strengths:
- Unique behavior: Workers feed their offspring by sucking the hemolymph from their larvae, a behavior that is harmless to the latter but fascinating to observe.
- Lightning Jaws: Capable of reaching speeds of 50 m/s, their mandibles are among the fastest in the animal kingdom.
- Rare species: Ideal for enthusiasts wishing to enrich their collection with a species with unique ecology and behavior.
Ethical commitment and quality:
At Fourmiculture , we attach great importance to the well-being of colonies. Our Dracula Ants Mystrium oculatum are imported by direct flight , a method that significantly reduces the stress and deaths associated with parcel shipments.
After their arrival, they are acclimatized in our premises , in perfectly controlled climatic conditions, in order to guarantee their stability and health. This approach allows us to offer robust and well-developed colonies.
Express delivery required! Whether you choose this solution or not, we will systematically ship this species express to France at no extra charge for its well-being. For the rest of the world, please choose the fastest carrier offered.
Important : To preserve the balance of local ecosystems, we do not sell this species in tropical areas such as Reunion, Guadeloupe, Martinique, etc., although this species does not, in our opinion, have any invasive potential due to its low aggressiveness, its reduced population and its non-invasive and poorly adaptable behavior.
Photo: Shattuck
