Iridomyrmex anceps

Name: Iridomyrmex anceps
Origin: Australia, New Guinea
Queen: approx. 8 – 9 mm
Workers: approx. 3 – 5 mm
Diet: Carbohydrates (honey, sugar water, maple syrup), proteins (small insects such as flies, crickets, cockroaches)
Humidity:
• Outworld: 30 – 50 %
• Nest: 50 – 70 %
Temperature:
• Outworld: 24 – 30 °C
• Nest: 26 – 30 °C
Hibernation: No
Nest type: Ytong, plaster, acrylic or 3D nests with good ventilation
Colony size: Very large – several thousands to tens of thousands of workers possible

Advantages and disadvantages of the species Iridomyrmex anceps

Advantages:
This species is extremely active, very eager to feed and exhibits exciting trail-building and hunting behaviour. It grows quickly and is robust to keep if conditions are right. No hibernation needed – thus observable all year round.

Disadvantages:
Very prone to escaping, as the workers are small, fast, and skilled climbers. High space and food requirements for a growing colony. Due to rapid growth, maintenance can soon become demanding.

Care

During the founding phase, a test tube with a small outworld is sufficient. Later, they need a larger, well-ventilated nest and plenty of foraging space, as they are constantly active. Ytong, plaster, or modular 3D nests are well-suited. Escape prevention (PTFE, talcum powder) is mandatory.

Feeding

Very fond of protein and carbohydrates:
• Offer small insects every 2–3 days (e.g., flies, crickets, cockroaches)

For large colonies, food requirements increase significantly.

Hibernation

Iridomyrmex anceps does not require hibernation.