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!

Argentine ant Gaster threat ?

Started By Alza , Jan 25 2015 3:49 PM

Please log in to reply

6 replies to this topic

#1 Offline Alza - Posted January 25 2015 - 3:49 PM

Advanced Member

Members
864 posts

LocationThe Village

So i was feeding my argentine ants a termite that was missing a leg, and they kept going near it and pointing their gasters to it. I havent seen them do this against any ant species or fruit fly. It is kinda like the gaster flagging solenopsis does except they don't have a stinger....

#2 Offline drtrmiller - Posted January 25 2015 - 3:58 PM

Vendor

Members
2,714 posts

They're acid squirters.

BugFinder likes this

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.

#3 Offline Alza - Posted January 25 2015 - 4:05 PM

Advanced Member

Members
864 posts

LocationThe Village

I did not know that...

#4 Offline AntsAreUs - Posted January 26 2015 - 5:50 AM

Advanced Member

Members
1,043 posts

LocationIndiana

I did not know that...

They have to have one or the other...

#5 Offline dspdrew - Posted January 26 2015 - 8:04 AM

Owner

Administrator
9,883 posts

LocationSanta Ana, CA

They might squirt something, like a lot of dolichoderines, but I don't think it's acid, as they don't have acidopores like Formicinae do. Dolichoderinae give off offensive odors to deter their prey.

My Ant Colonies | My Projects | Ants for Sale | Ant Keeping Products | Southern California Ant Map

#6 Offline drtrmiller - Posted January 26 2015 - 8:50 AM

Vendor

Members
2,714 posts

They might squirt something, like a lot of dolichoderines, but I don't think it's acid, as they don't have acidopores like Formicinae do. Dolichoderinae give off offensive odors to deter their prey.

Are you certain about that? I've seen them flex their gaster and expel some substance when taking down fruit flies and springtails. Whatever it is, it does seem to have the effect of stunning and then killing very small prey items.