Javascript Disabled Detected

You currently have javascript disabled. Several functions may not work. Please re-enable javascript to access full functionality.

Welcome to Formiculture.com!

This is a website for anyone interested in Myrmecology and all aspects of finding, keeping, and studying ants. The site and forum are free to use. Register now to gain access to all of our features. Once registered and logged in, you will be able to create topics, post replies to existing threads, give reputation points to your fellow members, get your own private messenger, post status updates, manage your profile and so much more. If you already have an account, login here - otherwise create an account for free today!

Best "Digging" Substrate

Started By T.C. , Sep 6 2024 1:42 AM

Please log in to reply

4 replies to this topic

#1 Offline T.C. - Posted September 6 2024 - 1:42 AM

Advanced Member

Members
3,099 posts

I've been experimenting with various types of substrates and soils for about a month now to find the best option for ideal digging conditions for ants that won't collapse. Most sands tend to not be the best option but I am still working with it. Does anyone know of good options? So far my best success has been with a clay/soil mixture.

High Quality and Affordable Ant Keeping Gear

#2 Offline Ants_Dakota - Posted September 6 2024 - 4:40 AM

Advanced Member

Members
2,386 posts

LocationSioux Falls, South Dakota

I've been experimenting with various types of substrates and soils for about a month now to find the best option for ideal digging conditions for ants that won't collapse. Most sands tend to not be the best option but I am still working with it. Does anyone know of good options? So far my best success has been with a clay/soil mixture.

Por Amor uses this, although you can only decern the substrate type from the photos. I read on discord that one of their employees spent like 2 years experimenting to improve it from their old mixture..

Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest. -Proverbs 6: 6-8

My Nationwide Ant Shop Here I have PPQ-526 permits to ship ants nationwide

Attention Ant-Keepers in South Dakota! Join the SoDak(Society Of Dakotan Ant Keepers)

My Formica sp. Journal

My Lasius sp. Journal

My Micro Ants Journal

My Pogonomyrmex occidentalis Journal

#3 Offline mbullock42086 - Posted September 6 2024 - 11:58 AM

Advanced Member

Members
257 posts

mix fine sand and some kind of clay powder by hand and you will have very stable substrate.

ants really like it because they can easily carve their way through the sub

#4 Offline ANTdrew - Posted September 6 2024 - 4:56 PM

Advanced Member

Moderators
9,946 posts

LocationAlexandria, VA

My native is soil is fortunately/unfortunately a pure brick making like clay. I just mix dried dust of it into sand and get a perfect digging substrate.

"The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their meat in the summer." Prov. 30:25
Keep ordinary ants in extraordinary ways.