7 replies to this topic

[mete]

In the guide here it writes, "If the insects are not cultured at home, it is advisable to freeze them for at least an hour to prevent any mites or pathogens from harming your ants.". Does heating (and by this I mean boiling water, but also I wonder hot air) have exactly the same effect (and in a few seconds?) ? I particularly mean fruit flies and spiders if it matters.

[Ants4ever7]

I am new as well and don't have nanitics yet, so correct me if I'm wrong, but from videos I think boiling for 5-10 seconds is okay and more humane.

[cooIboyJ]

I am new as well and don't have nanitics yet, so correct me if I'm wrong, but from videos I think boiling for 5-10 seconds is okay and more humane.

I heard somewhere that it is actually torture to boil bugs but, this might be wrong. I’ll try to find the link if i can.

[mete]

I have also read the ethical discussion, but I was wondering just the biological aspect. I think what I am trying to ask is if 100C for some seconds (5-10) is enough to kill all the pathogens or not (so high temp and/or longer time needed).

[cooIboyJ]

I have also read the ethical discussion, but I was wondering just the biological aspect. I think what I am trying to ask is if 100C for some seconds (5-10) is enough to kill all the pathogens or not (so high temp and/or longer time needed).

it will probably work.

[IdioticMouse26]

Boil them, but do it for like a good minute

[ANTdrew]

Freezing is not enough to kill mite eggs. Dip feeders in boiling water for three seconds.

[cooIboyJ]

I guess ill start boiling now.