Two unrelated questions

[MCWren]

1. I'm making two outworlds. One for my Tetramorium sp. E, and one for my Camponotus chromaiodes (if she ever has babies, otherwise I'll use C. pennsylvanicus). I would like to put a small twig in each outworld, since I think twigs add a lot to outworlds. However, I want to do this without the twigs rotting/growing mold or spreading disease to my ants. How do I do this? How do I prepare a twig for safe outworld use?

2. Besides fluon (I have plenty of household items I'd rather use), what makes a good deterrent specifically for Tetramorium sp. E? How about for Camponotus chromaiodes?

Thank you for helping with all questions.

[idahoantgirl]

Hi! i'm not sure about your first question, but I may be able to help with the second. I keep tetramorium sp. e as well. I know for a fact that they can cross over baby powder and rubbing alcohol, so i plan to try another trick. apparently you can apply some packing tape all along the rim of the outworld and then pain the baby powder mix on top of the tape. as far as I know this is the second best option to fluon.

[AntsRule]

As for the first question bake wood from 250 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit for anywhere from 1-3 hours. Then let cool before use.

[MadVampy]

Go to a hobby store. Many places like Hobby Lobby and such carry fake greenery (including twigs and such) that are made of plastic and such that are non-toxic that you can use. They are washable and will last forever.

[ooper01]

Go to a hobby store. Many places like Hobby Lobby and such carry fake greenery (including twigs and such) that are made of plastic and such that are non-toxic that you can use. They are washable and will last forever.

Hobby Lobby also sells real sticks.
http://www.hobbylobby.com/Floral-Wedding/Dried-Flowers/Natural-Hog-Huck-Branches/p/3899