Description
Name: Novomessor albisetosus
Origin: North America (arid regions, especially the southwestern USA)
Queen: approx. 10 – 12 mm
Workers: 5 – 9 mm, majors up to 11 mm
Food: seeds, insects, sugar water
Humidity:
- Arena: 20 – 40 %
- Nest: 40 – 60 %
Temperature:
- Arena: 24 – 32 °C
- Nest: 25 – 30 °C
Winter Dormancy: No, only a mild diapause is possible
Nest Type: Sand-clay nest, aerated concrete (Ytong), or earth nest
Colony Size: up to several thousand workers
Advantages and disadvantages of Novomessor albisetosus
Advantages:
- Very active, day-active ants with fascinating foraging and digging behaviour
- Large majors with an impressive head – visually very striking
- Robust and well adapted to warm, dry conditions
Disadvantages:
- Need sufficient roaming space, as they are very active
- Difficult to keep in cooler regions without heating equipment
Care
Novomessor albisetosus is suitable for experienced ant keepers who enjoy a lively species. A test tube is sufficient for founding; later, a larger sand-clay or aerated concrete (Ytong) nest is needed. An arena of at least 30×30 cm is recommended, as the ants move around a lot.
Feeding
This species is granivorous, meaning it collects seeds as its main food. In addition, protein in the form of small insects (e.g. crickets, roaches, flies) should be offered regularly.
Special Features
Novomessor albisetosus is an adaptable desert ant known for its large majors and interesting social behaviour. Ideal for keepers looking for a visually striking species that is easy to observe even when very active.