16 replies to this topic

[The_Gaming-gate]

I am looking for a good plaster to make formicaria with. I know some will mold and that others may be too soft and will be easy for ants to tunnel in. In these regards, what would be the best plaster to use? Preferably one that won't be too expensive. I was thinking PerfectCast, will that work?

Edited by The_Gaming-gate, April 3 2024 - 2:28 PM.

[GOCAMPONOTUS]

I like using grout,firebrick,and perfect cast . Perfect cast is my favorite one so I would recommend it.

[The_Gaming-gate]

I like using grout,firebrick,and perfect cast . Perfect cast is my favorite one so I would recommend it.

Alright, perfect!

[GOCAMPONOTUS]

And I use magnets.to connect the glass.

[Flu1d]

Ultracal-30 is what I use. It absorbs moisture well and I haven't had a single issue with mold.

[GOCAMPONOTUS]

I have used both and they perform equally but perfect cast seems to be a little bit cheaper

[The_Gaming-gate]

Do you think a 3” x 3” nest is good for founding?

Edited by The_Gaming-gate, April 3 2024 - 5:50 PM.

[GOCAMPONOTUS]

can work as founding but what species will you keep inside?

[Flu1d]

3x3 is kinda big for founding to be honest. I've found the best way to found is the test tube method, however some folks swear by the petri dish method as well.

That being said, if you can make it a tight 3x3 with tunnels and such, it's a fine size. But an open floor plan 3x3 would be a little too open and large.

Edited by Flu1d, April 3 2024 - 7:24 PM.

[GOCAMPONOTUS]

I depends on the size of the colony too if it is a large type like camponotus it could work, but smaller type of and a test tube setup is optimal.

[Flu1d]

I depends on the size of the colony too if it is a large type like camponotus it could work, but smaller type of and a test tube setup is optimal.

It could work, absolutely, but it isn't optimal. Even larger species, especially Camponotus, prefer tighter areas where they can feel safe and secured.

[The_Gaming-gate]

Oh wow, I thought that would work, guess not.

[GOCAMPONOTUS]

 

I depends on the size of the colony too if it is a large type like camponotus it could work, but smaller type of and a test tube setup is optimal.

It could work, absolutely, but it isn't optimal. Even larger species, especially Camponotus, prefer tighter areas where they can feel safe and secured.

 

This is also true ants don't't even need that much founding space. I found a C.sp queen who could barley move in her founding chamber. Even test tubes are like luxury to ants.

[ANTdrew]

I buy PerfectCast at Hobby Lobby. It is $7.99 for a four pound bag, which is a very good price. 

[GOCAMPONOTUS]

That is were I buy my perfect cast, always in my budget.

[The_Gaming-gate]

Can you just stick the magnets in the plaster before it hardens?

[ANTdrew]

Can you just stick the magnets in the plaster before it hardens?

Yes. Look up all the great tutorials for making formicaria found in the archives.