6 replies to this topic

[Foogoo]

I usually make my BF Blue as gel form and leave it in the nest until it dries as some species seem to enjoy eating it dry. My current batch however, instead of drying, it seems to "melt". It gets gooey and the ants don't touch it. Does this have to do with humidity? Or is it spoiled?

[drtrmiller]

I've never observed or heard of such.  Please file a report at www.byformica.com/help.  

 

I would file the report under "Food Does Not Gel As Expected."

Edited by drtrmiller, February 21 2015 - 7:45 AM.

[Foogoo]

I've never observed or heard of such.  Please file a report at www.byformica.com/help.  

 

I would file the report under "Food Does Not Gel As Expected."

 

I'll try getting a picture too. I'm wonder if it's simply beyond it's lifespan. The margins of my stock began discoloring and "oozing" slightly so I tossed it.

[drtrmiller]

Properly stored in a refrigerator, members have reportedly kept the food viable for many months, although I don't recommend keeping it stored in a refrigerator for more than 2 months.

 

For best storage, you can freeze:

 

After preparing the gel, cut into cubes and place, separated, on a piece of wax or parchment paper and place in the freezer.  When the cubes are completely frozen, after about 30 minutes, store them in a ziplock baggie until use.

 

I still recommend filing a report at www.byformica.com/help.  Even if it's user error, reports help a lot and only take a minute or two.

Edited by drtrmiller, February 21 2015 - 10:36 AM.

[Gregory2455]

I have had a bacteria of some sort like this, which Terry already knows about, (I have shown you pictures.) but I have never experienced it oozing...

[Foogoo]

Properly stored in a refrigerator, members have reportedly kept the food viable for many months, although I don't recommend keeping it stored in a refrigerator for more than 2 months.

 

For best storage, you can freeze:

 

After preparing the gel, cut into cubes and place, separated, on a piece of wax or parchment paper and place in the freezer.  When the cubes are completely frozen, after about 30 minutes, store them in a ziplock baggie until use.

 

I still recommend filing a report at www.byformica.com/help.  Even if it's user error, reports help a lot and only take a minute or two.

 

I'm going to try the freezing method with this batch. I'll get the report filled out too.

[drtrmiller]

Got the report. I emailed you regarding this.  

 

Thanks for your help!