93 replies to this topic

[RushmoreAnts]

Wait, that works with prenolepis?

Yep. Colonies are known to accept new queens in the wild. I've also tried this with Lasius, Formica, Solenopsis molesta, and Ponera pennsylvanica, with much success. 

[TheMicroPlanet]

I know where I could get some workers. Should I do it or not? (provided she's still alive)

[RushmoreAnts]

I know where I could get some workers. Should I do it or not? (provided she's still alive)

I'd go for it. I introduced a couple hundred to mine, and there was no sign of aggression.

[TheMicroPlanet]

She's aliiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiive!!!!!!!!

Unfortunately, I didn't see any eggs, it looks like she's been tearing at the cotton for her water reservior, and her wings are still on. On the bright side though, her water supply looks good, and she didn't freak out when I checked on her.

 

And i'm very sorry for the hilariously bad picture... I didn't bother to take off the red film this time.

Edited by TheMicroPlanet, May 1 2020 - 8:09 AM.

[ANTdrew]

What’s that clump of white by her mandibles? Looks like eggs to me...

[TheMicroPlanet]

Just some more cotton, unfortunately.

[ANTdrew]

Shucks

[TheMicroPlanet]

SHE'S A MOTHER!!!! I did an in depth checkup on her (for once) and sure enough, she has eggs! They're all in a neat little pile in front of her where she sits. She looked calm, just sitting there twitching her antennae. Funny enough, that white clump from the last picture might actually have been her eggs (i'm 100% they're eggs now, and not just cotton). Pictures will be coming asap. Also, I heard someplace that scattered eggs are a sign of infertility, but she has them all in a clump. Is that true, and could this mean she's fertile? Thanks in advance.

[TheMicroPlanet]

That being said, I might put off worker introduction for a few weeks.

[ANTdrew]

I told you, bro! Congrats!

[TheMicroPlanet]

I told you, bro! Congrats!

Thank you   pictures will hopefully be coming soon.

[AntsExodus]

Ok I'm definitely sure I'm going to introduce some workers to my dual Prenolepis imparis queens

[TheMicroPlanet]

...Also, I heard someplace that scattered eggs are a sign of infertility, but she has them all in a clump. Is that true, and could this mean she's fertile? Thanks in advance.

Any insight into this, anyone?

[RushmoreAnts]

If she's caring for them, then she's probably fertile. It's not a guarantee, but fertility is still in your favor.

[TheMicroPlanet]

If she's caring for them, then she's probably fertile. It's not a guarantee, but fertility is still in your favor.

That's really great to know. I'll still prepare for the worst, but this is great news. Thanks again!

[RushmoreAnts]

No problem. Just keep in mind that even fertile queens occasionally die for unknown reasons, but if you do everything right, she'll probably make it.

[TheMicroPlanet]

To be honest, i'm kind of suprised she's lived up to now. It's been what, 3, 4 weeks?

Edited by TheMicroPlanet, May 6 2020 - 12:03 PM.

[ANTdrew]

Also keep in mind that almost all queens are fertile. I think what you actually mean is mated. We don’t call people without children infertile, there’s a big difference.

[RushmoreAnts]

Also keep in mind that almost all queens are fertile. I think what you actually mean is mated. We don’t call people without children infertile, there’s a big difference.

I know, sorry, old habit. 

[TheMicroPlanet]

Just checked on her. The egg pile looks larger; not sure if she's layed more or if the eggs have grown (maybe both). I know I said pictures were coming asap last week, but THIS week they'll be here.... i hope...