8 replies to this topic

[windedbread]

I am kinda new to the idea of diapause and don’t really know when and what temperature to do it. I’m currently keeping 2 species which need diapause they are Formica and Camponotus. If you know when and what temperature to keep them at please respond to this post

[Condenced_M1lk]

Lol

[DDD101DDD]

Do it when it starts to get colder and when they stop foraging.

[Manitobant]

Lol

Rude. He was just asking a question. As for your answer, you put them in diapause as soon as the ants start to disappear outside, and you keep them there for a minimum of 3 months. As for temperature, anywhere from 0-5 degrees is best, and in my experience the best place to put them is in a refrigerator.

Edited by Manitobant, August 10 2020 - 1:11 PM.

[ANTdrew]

It’s actually pretty simple of a process and a nice break, to be honest. I can’t wait to put my big colonies down, lol.
What you can do is start by taking the colonies off heat cables or whatever you use, or move them to a colder room. Let them gradually cool down for a few weeks. With Formica and Camponotus, you’ll want wait until the colony has no more cocoons. Pupae cannot survive the winter and will rot or mold. Eggs and larvae are fine to overwinter. Once they’re ready, just pop them in a fridge and enjoy your break.

[RushmoreAnts]

Lol

 

[windedbread]

 

Lol

Rude. He was just asking a question. As for your answer, you put them in diapause as soon as the ants start to disappear outside, and you keep them there for a minimum of 3 months. As for temperature, anywhere from 0-5 degrees is best, and in my experience the best place to put them is in a refrigerator.

 

I live in California and the coldest it gets here in during the day is 50 degrees. I don’t think I should keep them at 0 to 5 degrees but tell me if I’m wrong

[ANTdrew]

Yeah, don’t hibernate Californian ants at Canadian temperatures. Aim for 40-50 degrees. Keep in mind where your ants originated, though, if they’re from colder mountains or something.

[ConcordAntman]

I agree with what those above have posted. If you’ve looked at Crystals’ pinned post “Antkeeping Guide for Beginners”, https://www.formicul...ginners/?p=1409

there’s a section on hibernation as well as a .pdf on feeding and hibernation. In addition, there is an updated guide to hibernation.

https://www.formicul...nation-updated/

Many of our forum members have a refrigerator or wine cooler dedicated to diapause. Note that some refrigerators might be too cold for your particular species. Some wine coolers have thermostats so you can better control the environment. Also, check out your species on the ant care sheets in the Ant Keeping section of the website for more detailed information on their specific diapause requirements.