The AntsCanada Ant Forum's

Hi guys I caught this gal today and I was wondering if you could identify her as a queen and a rhytidoponera ant. They're one of my favourite ants so I'd love to know.

She's about 9-10mm and was caught in Australia, NSW.

Can't Tell From These, But Definitely Semi-Claustral Queen.

Phoenix wrote: ↑

Tue May 23, 2017 12:02 am

Can't Tell From These, But Definitely Semi-Claustral Queen.

Holy COW! Thanks Phoenix!

She has a beautiful green and purple pearlescent, so I do think she is, I'll try get some clearer shots.

Then Probably, Rhytidoponera Metallica.

Phoenix wrote: ↑

Tue May 23, 2017 5:48 am

Then Probably, Rhytidoponera Metallica.

I'm very excited, but I have a question, she's missing two of her legs, so she's a four legged ant. Now I do know that Rhytidoponera struggle walking on glass (being in a test tube) and she's only got 4 legs, what should I do here? Should I put in some dirt for grip or is she ok, move her out of the setup? I'm just wondering, coz I've done a bit of research on this species and there isn't much info on owning a colony.

Should You Use Substrate, Be Sure To Bake Them First.
A Test-Tube Setup Should Be Fine, Be Sure To Feed Her With Some Fruit Flies Every Three To Four Days.

Phoenix wrote: ↑

Tue May 23, 2017 6:02 am

Should You Use Substrate, Be Sure To Bake Them First.
A Test-Tube Setup Should Be Fine, Be Sure To Feed Her With Some Fruit Flies Every Three To Four Days.

Ok I'll decide on the substrate, but I have pre-killed crickets from a shop is that a good enough substitute for the fruit flies? If not can I just catch wild flies or do I buy them somewhere?

It very well could be, but I want better pictures to be 100% sure.

Martialis wrote: ↑

Tue May 23, 2017 6:09 am

It very well could be, but I want better pictures to be 100% sure.

Any recommendations on angle or ways to improve clarity of photos with an iPad camera?