7 replies to this topic

[KBant]

I am doing my research on building the perfect formicarium and need everyones help.  

 

I have an idea of what my design will be but i would like to ask the members here about specifics.

 

What are absolutes for a successful formicarium? i understand any formicarium needs to have decent aeration, hydration in the form of humidity, a heat source, and enough space, but not too much! and of course connection to an outworld. 

 

also, What is your ideal substrate for a nest? Is it hydrostone? grout? ytong? i wanted to try portland cement. Now, portland cement may not absorb water and hold it like ytong or hydrostone but so long as i have a water source and aeration i should be able to provide proper and safe humidity correct?

 

it would be way cheaper to buy from tarheel as i like their designs but i would like to help further the hobby by promoting DIY Formicaria / nests. 

 

once i have enough data i will trial my designs and post a journal here. 

 

Thank you all in advance. 

Edited by KBant, August 13 2017 - 7:29 PM.

[sgheaton]

I am doing my research on building the perfect formicarium and need everyones help.  

 

 

What is your ideal substrate for a nest? Is it hydrostone? grout? ytong?

 

i wanted to try portland cement. Now, portland cement may not absorb water and hold it like ytong or hydrostone but so long as i have a water source and aeration i should be able to provide proper and safe humidity correct?

[ultraex2]

It depends on the person, but I would think that the "ideal" formicarium would be light and have dry and humid areas so that the ants can pick and choose where to keep their brood.

[Jonathan21700]

One of the best in my opinion. 

Pictures: http://www.biodivers...ray-mendez.html

Edited by Jonathan21700, August 14 2017 - 12:20 PM.

[KBant]

thanks johnathon! i really enjoyed that video! 

 

i saw this other youtuber who makes nests from grout and they are beautiful!!!

 

anyone know where i can get glass for cheap?? i saw walmart has multiple picture frames for cheap but is there another way? i love the magnet idea to hold the glass over silicone

 

Edited by KBant, August 14 2017 - 2:50 PM.

[CNewton]

I go to the dollar store for glass from picture frames. It's very thin, but cut to a useable size. Hell, for a buck, I can afford another if I mess up that badly. That video is great, really gets me thinking. 10gal tanks are very easy to come by for cheap. That might be a fun project.  

[KBant]

i have a question regarding easy removal of a newly poured grout formicarium from a clear acrylic box. I've seen different cooking oils used but is there a better alternative? one that is stronger?

can one use wd40 or a silicone based lubricant spray?  

 

 

btw i will be using  4" x 4" x 5-1/16" h clear flush-lid amac boxes. 

 

https://www.containe...A7-A8B12B86AF52

 

 

thanks in advance!

Edited by KBant, August 24 2017 - 8:54 PM.

[Bryce]

Those amac boxes are what I use for alot my out worlds. I really like them and they are dirt cheap.