6 replies to this topic

[AntFlex]

Hello,

 

I am looking to create my own formicarium for future ants, I was looking through the garage and happen to have these materials. Can I please be informed if they are safe for ants? If so, are they a good medium for the formicarium? Why or why not?

 

Materials in question:

 

• Tile Mortar with Polymer
   
• Sanded Grout with Polymer
   
• Unsanded Grout with Polymer

[Kevin]

Unsanded grout is favored for making formicaria, however I'm not sure what polymer will do in the equation.

[AntFlex]

Unsanded grout is favored for making formicaria, however I'm not sure what polymer will do in the equation.

 

I am unsure as well, I have tried searching for an answer with no avail.

 

 

If decide to go with the tile mortar, how hard would it be? I am just curious to try new materials

Edited by AntFlex, November 18 2016 - 3:23 PM.

[CallMeCraven]

Grout is the preferred medium for formicaria, with polyblend being a popular brand. I do not believe the polymer inside the grout will affect your results. It is important to note that unsanded grout absorbs water better than sanded, and when mixed with perlite, is a good medium to make sections of your formicarium more absorbent to help create more or less humidity depending on your needs.

 

Crystal has a great guide here that you can borrow tips and tricks from:

http://www.formicult...icture +journey

Edited by CallMeCraven, November 18 2016 - 3:18 PM.

[Kevin]

Grout is the preferred medium for formicaria, with polyblend being a popular brand. I do not believe the polymer inside the grout will affect your results. It is important to note that sanded grout absorbs water better than unsanded, and when mixed with perlite, is a good medium to make sections of your formicarium more absorbent to help create more or less humidity depending on your needs.

 

Crystal has a great guide here that you can borrow tips and tricks from:

http://www.formicult...icture +journey

I think you've got it the other way around. Sanded grout is almost water proof, while unsanded grout absorbs water when mixed with sand or perlite.

[CallMeCraven]

I think you've got it the other way around. Sanded grout is almost water proof, while unsanded grout absorbs water when mixed with sand or perlite.

 

Yep you are right, I will fix this in my post thanks .

Edited by CallMeCraven, November 18 2016 - 3:17 PM.

[AntFlex]

Grout is the preferred medium for formicaria, with polyblend being a popular brand. I do not believe the polymer inside the grout will affect your results. It is important to note that unsanded grout absorbs water better than sanded, and when mixed with perlite, is a good medium to make sections of your formicarium more absorbent to help create more or less humidity depending on your needs.

 

Crystal has a great guide here that you can borrow tips and tricks from:

http://www.formicult...icture +journey

 

 

Thank you, taking a good read at her guide.