Javascript Disabled Detected

You currently have javascript disabled. Several functions may not work. Please re-enable javascript to access full functionality.

Welcome to Formiculture.com!

This is a website for anyone interested in Myrmecology and all aspects of finding, keeping, and studying ants. The site and forum are free to use. Register now to gain access to all of our features. Once registered and logged in, you will be able to create topics, post replies to existing threads, give reputation points to your fellow members, get your own private messenger, post status updates, manage your profile and so much more. If you already have an account, login here - otherwise create an account for free today!

Test tube Flooding concerns

Started By MegaMyrmex , Mar 24 2018 10:14 AM

Please log in to reply

4 replies to this topic

#1 Offline MegaMyrmex - Posted March 24 2018 - 10:14 AM

Advanced Member

Members
637 posts

LocationEllicott City, Maryland

My camponotus colony is currently being hoised in a test tube setup but instead of cotton I am using paper towels since I have no more cotton balls left. The paper towel seems rather moist and I'm sort of scared if it might flood. This setup is brand new and I just made it. Is the chance of flooding possible? Is this setup safe in general, with all the excess mpisture and whatnot?

Proverbs 6:6-8 New International Version (NIV)

6 Go to the ant, you sluggard;
    consider its ways and be wise!
7 It has no commander,
    no overseer or ruler,
8 yet it stores its provisions in summer
    and gathers its food at harvest.

#2 Offline FeedTheAnts - Posted March 24 2018 - 10:52 AM

Advanced Member

Members
1,238 posts

LocationVirginia

I wouldn't recommend paper towels, I'm not completely sure but just thinking about it would tell me it is a bad idea. Just buy some more cotton balls, they are cheap and sold everywhere.

drtrmiller likes this

I accidentally froze all my ants

#3 Offline drtrmiller - Posted March 24 2018 - 10:57 AM

Vendor

Members
2,714 posts

You're able to achieve a higher packing density with cotton fibers that haven't already been compressed and processed into paper. The high density/compression is what inhibits flooding.

Do not use paper towels in place of loose cotton for test tubes.

Edited by drtrmiller, March 24 2018 - 10:57 AM.

byFormica^® is the manufacturer of the iconic nectar feeders and Sunburst Ant Nectar.
byFormica ant products always deliver consistent performance, convenience,
and reliability, making them among the most beloved ant foods and kit enjoyed by
ant keeping enthusiasts worldwide. For more information, visit www.byFormica.com.

#4 Offline MegaMyrmex - Posted March 24 2018 - 11:39 AM

Advanced Member

Members
637 posts

LocationEllicott City, Maryland

Alright then, thanks! I'll try to pick up some more cotton balls later.

Proverbs 6:6-8 New International Version (NIV)

6 Go to the ant, you sluggard;
    consider its ways and be wise!
7 It has no commander,
    no overseer or ruler,
8 yet it stores its provisions in summer
    and gathers its food at harvest.

#5 Offline Serafine - Posted March 24 2018 - 1:50 PM

Advanced Member

Members
1,812 posts

LocationGermany

As long as the test tube is open or has a straw as entrance there is no need to worry. Camponotus are huge ants that do not drown easily, they will simply move out of the tube when it starts to leak.

We should respect all forms of consciousness. The body is just a vessel, a mere hull.

Welcome to Lazy Tube - My Camponotus Journal

Back to General Ant Keeping · Next Unread Topic →