Description
Species: Green Head Ant (Rhytidoponera metallica)
Basic Details:
- Size: Queen is around 8mm, workers are over 5mm.
- Founding Type: Semi-claustral
- Colony Size: 2000+
- Care Level: Easy
Feeding:
- For founding queens: Provide small amounts of sugars weekly. Queens will search for proteins for their brood; provide small amounts weekly. Gradually increase amounts when workers arrive.
Setup:
- Founding stage: Test tubes and tubs setup or a founding/small nest with a small outworld.
- As colony grows: Move into a small nest when the worker count exceeds ~10.
Behavior and Tips:
- Escape-proof: Unable to climb glass and plastic surfaces, minimizing escapes.
- Stinging: Ants have a nasty sting; avoid picking them up barehanded.
- Entertainment: Enjoy watching them hunt smaller isopods.
- Seed Dispersal: Known to eat certain seeds, contributing to natural setups.
- Reproduction: Gamergate species allows colony continuation by introducing males (drones) if the queen passes.
Safety Warning:
- Stinging Risk: Ants are capable of stinging humans.
- Allergies: If anyone in proximity is allergic to insect bites/stings, or has had adverse reactions, avoid purchasing.
- Medical Attention: Seek immediate medical attention if stung.
- Consultation: Consult a medical professional before purchase.
Summary: Green Head Ants are an easy-to-care-for species suitable for beginners. They’re escape-proof and offer entertainment through their hunting behavior. While they have a sting, their inability to climb glass or plastic makes them safe for containment. However, individuals with allergies should exercise caution.
Ethan (verified owner) –
The team was super helpful with my shipment.