2 replies to this topic

[matt123]

hey guys,

 

When is it advised to move my colonies out of their test tubes?

I have two (what appear to be tetramorium) who have about 10 (+/- 2) workers now.

I have read some mixed reviews online during my research phases saying that the moment the first workers hatch to anywhere from 100 workers it is wise to move the colony into a set up with an outworld.

Any suggestions on when to do this? At the moment they are on a semi steady diet of honey (they don't always eat it) and one colony is just finishing up its first protein meal, a crane fly. while the second has finally accepted its first protein meal, a spider that was in my room mocking me. The colonies seem happy but I wonder if the tubes are too large and wide open for them. Also, I do not claim to be the ant whisperer and know when they are happy.

It probably doesn't change much but it is worth noting that I use Epi-Pen tubes, not true test tubes. The Epi-Pens that my dad gets have ridged tubes and therefore don't roll around, they were also readily available when I visited.

 

I have a ten gallon fish tank that I planned on filling with some dirt for one colony. Or even getting a divider of some kind so I can house both colonies in it.

[FeedTheAnts]

For now, if they are tugging/trying to get past the cotton plug then you can put them in a small outworld. Any small bucket will do, you just place the tube open in the outworld and apply a barrier. This is what most people recommend for small colonies. As for the test tubes, I use very large ones and even my small Crematogasters don't mind the extra room.

Edited by TennesseeAnts, September 19 2017 - 5:01 PM.

[matt123]

So if they are not tugging and rarely venture away from the brood leave them be?