14 replies to this topic

[Ants4ever7]

I want to build some Ytong nests. Does anyone know where to buy it?

[AntsTx]

I want to build some Ytong nests. Does anyone know where to buy it?

You can buy ytong in the US but it you have to buy it in bulk. I recommend you make firebrick or plaster to make nests.

[Full_Frontal_Yeti]

As said above. Most USA ant keepers i seen, don't use ytong. Mostly i see perfect cast and other brands of plaster pour type material being used here.
 this is what i use

https://www.amazon.c...B08XWFGH67?th=1

 

I  like that a well done pour setup won't need any carving or drilling later. All ports, tunnels, and chambers are made with clay/sand/tubing and then poured over. After it hardens you just clean out the sand or whatever and you got a ready to go nest.
I take mine to the local framing shop and have them cut an anti-reflective glass cover to fit (don't forget the magnets in the nest to keep the glass on).

If you search you can find several good "how to" threads around here for making pour nests, and of a variety of complexity to simplicity as well.

[ANTdrew]

I like the frame shop tip. Cutting glass is such a PITA.

[Ants4ever7]

Does plaster work as well? Also how long does plaster last as I will not use all of it soon.

[Ernteameise]

Well, here in Germany, you can buy it in any building supplies / hardware store.

[Ants4ever7]

Does plaster work as well? Also how long does plaster last as I will not use all of it soon.

[Ants4ever7]

Can firebrick work?

[Full_Frontal_Yeti]

Does plaster work as well? Also how long does plaster last as I will not use all of it soon.

As long as you can store it in a dry place, it should last a long while.
But i'd say it is unlikely the first few nests you produce would be useable. Assume a leaning curve of 1-3 nest attempts before your first good one.
You'll go through a bit more than you imagine figuring it out.

[Ants_Dakota]

Does plaster work as well? Also how long does plaster last as I will not use all of it soon.

Plaster works, but it has a high tendency to mold, and ants are usually messy. It will last forever as long as it is not exposed to moisture. If you are going to attempt a pour formicarium, please check out this thread here. He uses perfect cast, which is better than plaster in almost every aspect.

Can firebrick work?

Yes. Here is a guide if you wish to use firebrick.

[Ants4ever7]

Do you think perfect cast or firebrick are better in general and cost for beginners?

[Ants_Dakota]

Do you think perfect cast or firebrick are better in general and cost for beginners?

I think either could work. It depends on your experience with tools as well as access to tools. The firebrick guide by crystals is super simple and easy to follow, as long as you have access to a Dremel or hand drill. You usually have to buy bulk firebrick if you want the high-quality useable stock, unless you have a local store that deals it, which is rare. I have high quality firebrick and a hydration system I could send you if you are interested in making just one formicarium. PM me for details.

Perfect cast is also pretty easy, you will just need more starting materials. You need the perfect cast, petri dishes, mesh, sand, mold, etc.

Edited by Ants_Dakota, September 25 2024 - 10:42 AM.

[Ants4ever7]

Does this seem high quality?

[Ants_Dakota]

Does this seem high quality?

No that is made of vermiculite, so it will fall apart when wet. All the high-quality ones sell for 50 dollars or more for a 6 pack. Here is something similar to mine. Notice the pores in the material.

Edited by Ants_Dakota, September 25 2024 - 2:37 PM.

[ANTdrew]

In my opinion, learning how to make plaster nests with PerfectCast or similar mixes is the best way to go. There are several great tutorials on here if you want to dig through the archives. YouTube also has good tutorials.