Recently I've aquired a Pogonomyrmex barbatus, Pogonomyrmex rugosus, and Myrmecocystus mimicus queen. I read an old article that too much humidity, which a normal test tube might have, can kill desert species such as Myrmecocystus and Pogonomyrmex. I don't have any in just a sealed tube. Here's the setups:
Pogonomyrmex Barbatus (Queen and 3 Workers): Tube locked in place with clay in a bare container, with a seed tray, honey droplet, and dead spider outside.
Pogonomyrmex Rugosus (Queen only): Test tube locked in place with clay in a bare container, with a seed pile, dead spider, and honey droplet. I also slightly blocked off her nest entrance with cotton so she would feel concealed.
Myrmecocystus Mimicus (Queen only): Small container filled with coconut husk and a test tube setup slightly blocked off with cotton. No food or honey, but I'll be adding some soon (Just in case). She decided to burrow next to the edge, and I have clear vision of her.
I'm hoping since they're in setups that their tubes are only slightly blocked in, that they'll be fine. Also, for the Myrmecocystus should I put her back into the tube and make a bare setup? I'm worried she will die without water.
I truely thank you if you can answer these questions quick! I need to move them into a proper setup before they get eggs. That'll just be a hastle.
Edited by Ants_Texas, July 23 2017 - 11:39 PM.