Description
Name: Camponotus cf. mus
Origin: Guyana
Queen: approx. 14 – 16 mm
Workers: approx. 6 – 9 mm
Diet: Carbohydrates (honey, sugar water, maple syrup), proteins (insects like flies, crickets, cockroaches)
Humidity:
• Arena: 30 – 50 %
• Nest: 50 – 70 %
Temperature:
• Arena: 24 – 30 °C
• Nest: 26 – 30 °C
Hibernation: No
Nest type: Ytong, plaster, or 3D nests with dry and slightly moist areas
Colony size: approx. 1,000 – 5,000 workers
Advantages and Disadvantages of the species Camponotus cf. mus
Advantages:
Robust, heat-loving species with moderate growth and very good observation potential. Colonies are calmer than many other Camponotus species and are therefore suitable for keepers who want a clear overview of their development. No hibernation necessary – active all year round.
Disadvantages:
Requires continuous warmth and can become very sluggish in conditions that are too cool. Often slow brood development in the initial phase until the colony reaches a critical size.
Care
For founding, a test tube nest with a small arena (10x10 cm) is sufficient. Later, a well-ventilated Ytong, plaster, or 3D nest with a separate humid area is recommended. An arena of 20x20 cm or larger is ideal. This species is mostly diurnal and shows interesting feeding and transport activities.
Feeding
Offer proteins (dead or scalded insects such as flies, crickets, cockroaches) every 3–4 days. Keep carbohydrates (honey, sugar water) permanently available and change them at least weekly. At higher temperatures, activity and food intake increase significantly.