4 replies to this topic

[JillionsMillions]

I have a Camponotus Modoc colony that is about a year old. They are doing great, but I have a question about the trash pile they have created. 

 

Currently I have 3 test tubes connected and the ants occupy 2 of the tubes with brood. The third has turned into the trash pile:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When should I clean out the trash pile? 

 

 

 

Thanks!!

[Acutus]

I'd say anytime you feel it's necessary, especially any mold, and/or there are no ants present!

 

I love those AC Test tube portals!!

[TheRealAntMan]

I would change it when it starts spilling out the tube.

[FSTP]

I clean out the midden piles as soon as I see them. I don't wait. Waiting just gives a source for mold to take hold.

[drtrmiller]

When you clean it out, don't use water.  The chemical compounds in the trash are what the ants use to discern its location.  So if you want them to keep using the same location, simply remove the particulates, and try not to disturb the odor that much by washing.

Edited by drtrmiller, June 5 2019 - 2:20 PM.