9 replies to this topic

[Jvlaurel]

1. Location (on a map) of collection:
2. Date of collection: 7/2
3. Habitat of collection: pool, backyard close to wooded area
4. Length (from head to gaster):
5. Color, hue, pattern and texture:
6. Distinguishing characteristics:
7. Distinguishing behavior:
8. Nest description:

9. Nuptial flight time and date:found mid day 10-2pm

First one I believe is tapinoma? I have caught several, but they are dying in a few days in test tube? Not sure why. 6 to 7mm.

Second one is 8mm, not sure because of lighter color.

3rd one is very small, most likely won't keep the few I found, but curious to know what she is. 5mm at most.

Thanks for the help.

Attached Images

• 
• 
• 

[TestSubjectOne]

3rd image looks like Monomorium minimum

[Kaelwizard]

3rd image looks like Monomorium minimum

It could be Tetramorium. We would need closer pics. The other two are parasitic Lasius species.

[ANTdrew]

Third one is Tetramorium 100%.

[Jvlaurel]

I have been finding tetramorium and the third one is much smaller, only 5mm. The tetramorium I have been getting is more like 8mm. The tube she is in is not a normal size test tube, it is a mini one I use to get a better picture.

Any idea why the 2nd one keeps dying on me, if it is a parasitic lasius do they have different needs? I have not looked them up yet.thanks for the help.

[Kaelwizard]

They naturally infiltrate colonies and kill the previous queen as they cannot found on their own. They require host workers in captivity as well.

[ANTdrew]

Monomorium in that case. My bad!

[Kaelwizard]

I didn’t see the size, my bad as well.

[Manitobant]

1. Lasius aphidicola (social parasite, will need host workers)

2. Lasius interjectus (another social parasite, will need host workers)

3. Monomorium minimum (an actual good beginner species, fully claustral)

[Jvlaurel]

Thanks everyone for the help.