Carebara castanea

Name: Carebara castanea
Origin: Southeast Asia (e.g., Thailand, Malaysia)
Queen: approx. 8 – 10 mm
Workers: Minor: approx. 1 – 1.5 mm | Major/Soldier: approx. 3 – 4 mm
Food: Carbohydrates (honey, sugar water), Proteins (smallest insects, e.g., springtails, fruit flies, micro crickets)
Humidity:
• Arena: 60 – 80 %
• Nest: 70 – 90 %
Temperature:
• Arena: 24 – 28 °C
• Nest: 24 – 28 °C
Hibernation: None, tropical species
Nest type: Humid Ytong, plaster, or sand-loam nests, alternatively earth nests with high humidity
Colony size: Tens of thousands of workers possible

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Species Carebara castanea

Advantages:

Extremely polygynous and highly polymorphic – colonies contain tiny minors and striking majors. Fascinating social behavior and large colonies possible. A very exciting observation species for experienced keepers.

Disadvantages:

Tiny minors require perfect escape prevention. Constant need for high humidity. Due to their small size, difficult to observe without a magnifying glass or macro lens.

Keeping

During the founding phase, a test tube nest with a very moist cotton reservoir and a mini arena is sufficient. Later, moist sand-loam or Ytong nests are recommended. A consistently moist nest area is crucial for the survival of the brood.

Feeding

Due to the very small minors, only very small food should be offered – e.g., crushed fruit flies, micro crickets, or freshly killed springtails. Carbohydrates (honey or sugar water) should be continuously available.