Carebara diversa

Name: Carebara diversa
Origin: Southeast Asia, humid forests
Queen: approx. 21 – 23 mm
Workers: extremely polymorphic – minor workers only approx. 4 – 5 mm (approx. 90% of the colony), major workers many times larger and heavier
Food: mainly proteins (feeder insects), occasionally small seeds
Humidity: Nest 60 – 80%
Temperature: 24 – 30 degrees
Winter Dormancy: No
Nest Type: Earth nests – sensitive to nest conditions. A humidity and ventilation gradient has proven effective so the colony can choose the optimal zone itself
Colony Size: up to five figures possible in captivity, on average approx. 40,000 individuals in the wild

Advantages and Disadvantages of Carebara diversa:

Advantages:
The extreme size difference between the smallest and largest workers makes this species something truly special. Very active and interesting behavior.

Disadvantages:
High demands on temperature, humidity, and nest conditions – especially in the early phase, mortality can be high. More suitable for experienced keepers. Old food should be removed consistently, as the species is prone to mites.

Care:
Earth nests have proven the most successful. A temperature and humidity gradient in the nest is recommended so the colony can find the optimal zone itself.

Feeding:
Offer plenty of protein in the form of feeder insects, occasionally also small seeds.