6 replies to this topic

[Noah Norman]

I have my camponotus chromaiodes colonies in a Omni nest, but I took the 2 sponges out because they always grow mold on them and the ants Canada handbook said that componotus chromaiodes can live in dry nests. Is it bad or even fatal for the ants to hibernate their nest dry?

[T.C.]

I've never observed camponotous living in dry nests in the wild before, so I assume even if they do survive, it isn't something they like or prefer. Camponotous or not, I would definetly recommend humidity at all times. No disrespect, but the AC handbook to my knowledge was written by just him. He may have alot of experience, but he is not a proffesional. Even as a experienced hobbyist, a person can only learn so much by observing. To learn the other stuff, you have to study them, and break into the old science and go to school to study such things.

[AntsMAN]

Make sure the nest is hydrated through hibernation. If not they will dehydrate and die. They might be mostly inactive but they still need water.

I lost 5+ colonies due to not properly hydrating them Camponotus sp. included during hibernation.

[Noah Norman]

Make sure the nest is hydrated through hibernation. If not they will dehydrate and die. They might be mostly inactive but they still need water.
I lost 5+ colonies due to not properly hydrating them Camponotus sp. included during hibernation.

Could I just put a test tube filled with water in their out world, the sponges are growing mold.

Edited by Noah Norman, May 24 2017 - 2:14 PM.

[Socalfireants]

 

Make sure the nest is hydrated through hibernation. If not they will dehydrate and die. They might be mostly inactive but they still need water.
I lost 5+ colonies due to not properly hydrating them Camponotus sp. included during hibernation.

Could I just put a test tube filled with water in their out world, the sponges are growing mold.

 

Put the test tube through the other opening so its super close to the nest interior. 

[Martialis]

A study shows that larvae of Camponotus start having birth defects ~20% humidity. I'd say that what the others are saying about a test tube for humidity would be best for now.

Edited by Martialis, May 25 2017 - 6:49 AM.

[Serafine]

20% humidity is bone dry, no room is even going so low except it is seriously over-airconditioned.