9 replies to this topic

[AUGUAG]

This sweet little girl flew right onto my glasses while I was out looking for spiders. I apologize in advance for the quality of the pictures, as I am not in prime circumstances to take photos, but I thought I would see if she is worth keeping or not.



1. Location of collection: Roanoke, VA

2. Date of collection: 8/23/21
3. Habitat of collection: Suburbs
4. Length: ~10 mm
5. Coloration, Abdomen is dark reddish brown, gaster is orange with what appears to be faint striping
6. Distinguishing characteristics: N/A
7. Anything else distinctive: N/A
8. Nest description N/A

9. Nuptial flight time and date: I assume a nuptial flight is currently in progress (8/23/21 at approximately 7:30 PM), as she flew right into me and I have noticed male alates (though uncertain if from the same species

Thanks in advance for the help!

 

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[AntBoi3030]

Looks like aphenogaster sp., I’d give her some sugary food she looks quite thin.

[NickAnter]

Aphaenogaster sp.

 

Could be lamellidens or fulva.

[AUGUAG]

I'm not familiar with keeping Aphaenogaster. Are they interesting to keep? Any special care info that I need to know?

[AntBoi3030]

They don’t have social stomachs so you need to have food they can drag back to the rest of the colony.

[ANTdrew]

I’m finding them quite interesting and well behaved.

[Kaelwizard]

According to AntWiki, they primarily feed on insects, but for carbs they will take seeds (particularly those with elaiosomes) and liquid sugar (which they might soak up with something to bring to the nest). Apparently they may also feed on certain mushrooms. I've heard they can be extremely dirty, which is probably because they have to take food into the nest. I think I've heard about the queen(s) foraging for food themselves somewhere. I would definitely give them a try if I were you.

Edited by Kaelwizard, August 23 2021 - 5:18 PM.

[AUGUAG]

Good to know. Thank you all for the advice, as always!

[TennesseeAnts]

Aphaenogaster fulva/lamellidens.

[Manitobant]

Aphaenogaster are fully claustral to my knowledge, and don't need food until the first workers arrive.