10 replies to this topic

[William. T]

I have experimented with the use of salt/sand substrate - yes, salt, in my outworld. Of course, I have done it with S. Invicta workers first, and it seems that they didn't die. But again, fire ants are nearly bulletproof. Since substrate makes the outworld looks loads better, and can help absorb sugary food juices, I using a substrate ants would never burrow in, for obvious reasons, one being the negative impact of salt on brood. The salt is diluted, but in amounts that have killed S. Invicta brood easily. Also, salt is antibacterial and anti mold, so the outworld would be much more sanitary.

[Ants4fun]

I would imagine that it would dehydrate the ants, much more the brood.

[William. T]

So, far, the fire ants are still alive. I am using an extremely diluted mixture. The mix would not reach the good chambers.

[Vergara]

I've Seen S. Invicta and Odontomachus living on the beach here, even on little islands there here surrounded by saltwater and sand. i always wondered how they got there.

[William. T]

Still alive! Now I am experimenting with T. Sessile workers.

[Crystals]

Why not just use something that pours in?  Like plaster, grout or hydrostone?

Cover it in sand while wet for decoration purposes.

[LC3]

Doesn't salt melt when touched with water?

[Alza]

that's sugar...I think

[William. T]

Why not just use something that pours in?  Like plaster, grout or hydrostone?

Cover it in sand while wet for decoration purposes.

I can't.

 

 

Doesn't salt melt when touched with water?

 

Look, the way people are acting, they think I am using a 100% salt substrate. I am mixing it with sand so the salt is almost no present but still can dry wet things out.

[Ants4fun]

I think the negatives would out way any potential benefits. Not sure what you are trying to acomplish that sand couldn't.

Edited by Ants4fun, July 11 2015 - 6:24 AM.

[William. T]

Scratch the plan. At the batch of newly molted workers died.