Aphaenogaster longiceps

Name: Aphaenogaster longiceps
Origin: Southern Europe (e.g., Spain, Italy, Balkan region)
Queen: approx. 8 – 9 mm
Workers: approx. 4 – 6 mm
Food: Carbohydrates (e.g., honey, agave syrup, sugar water), proteins (insects like cockroaches, flies, black soldier fly larvae)
Humidity:
• Arena: 40 – 60 %
• Nest: 60 – 80 %

Temperature:
• Arena: 22 – 26 °C
• Nest: 22 – 26 °C

Hibernation: Yes, late November to February at approx. 10 – 15 °C

Nest type: Ytong, plaster, or 3D nests with humidification are very suitable

Colony size: approx. 1,000 – 2,000 workers

Advantages and disadvantages of the species Aphaenogaster longiceps

Advantages:

Aphaenogaster longiceps is a calm and easy-to-care-for species. It is well-suited for smaller setups and can easily be kept as a "desk colony." Their natural foraging and collecting behavior, as well as the formation of ant trails, are beautiful to observe.

Disadvantages:

The colony grows rather moderately and is less frantic than many tropical species. Those who expect very high activity might find them a bit calmer.

Keeping

Aphaenogaster longiceps is easy to keep and also well-suited for beginners.

During the founding phase, a test tube with a small arena (10x10 cm to 20x20 cm) is sufficient. As soon as the test tube is well-filled, a humidifiable nest can be offered.

For a mature colony, a 20x20 cm arena with a humid nest is usually sufficient. Due to their small space requirement, this species is excellently suited for smaller rooms or the desk.

Feeding

There are no difficulties with feeding.

Offer proteins like cockroaches, flies, or black soldier fly larvae every 3 – 4 days (freeze or blanch them beforehand to prevent mites)

Hibernation

Aphaenogaster longiceps requires hibernation from late November to February at approx. 10 – 15 °C.

Skipping hibernation can slow down brood development and shorten the queen's lifespan. During this time, food requirements are low. However, carbohydrates should still be offered continuously. Proteins are not strictly necessary but can be given in small amounts every two weeks.

Pay particular attention to constant nest humidity during hibernation.