4 replies to this topic

[ugo]

Hi, yesterday I found a total of 5 Crematogaster queen ants, I put them all in 1 test tube. They seem to be cleaning each other. I'm wondering if they will be ok leaving them togather?? Thank! Oh I live in central MO.

[Pumpkin_Loves_Ants]

Hi, yesterday I found a total of 5 Crematogaster queen ants, I put them all in 1 test tube. They seem to be cleaning each other. I'm wondering if they will be ok leaving them togather?? Thank! Oh I live in central MO.

What species are they? We can’t figure out if they are polygonous if we don’t know the exact species. You can get them IDed over in the corresponding channel but don’t forget to use the template for IDs. If they are the same species but aren’t polygonous, congrats you got yourself five queens of the same species.

[ANTdrew]

Unless you only have one test tube period, I would separate them. I've read some grisly stories on here about people trying to combine Crematogaster. The worst case scenario if you separate them would be having to be a little more patient with founding. Conversely, if things go wrong by combining them you could end up with a bunch of dead queens. I know folks are often intrigued by polygyny, but it doesn't seem worth the risk unless you are 100% about the species and their preferences. Just my opinion - take it or leave it.

[ugo]

Unless you only have one test tube period, I would separate them. I've read some grisly stories on here about people trying to combine Crematogaster. The worst case scenario if you separate them would be having to be a little more patient with founding. Conversely, if things go wrong by combining them you could end up with a bunch of dead queens. I know folks are often intrigued by polygyny, but it doesn't seem worth the risk unless you are 100% about the species and their preferences. Just my opinion - take it or leave it.

I'll take some pics when I get home.

[Canadian anter]

I've done and seen a ton of attempts combining Crematogaster and I can say I've been only been able to do it a single time. I don't recommend trying if you don't have queens to spare, but if you do, I would place the queens in the same outworld and place a single test tube. That way if any attacking occur the queens can scramble away