Characteristics of Lasius niger
The Lasius niger is mostly a European species. It can also be found in North Africa, parts of North America, and minimally in temperate areas of Asia. Its main characteristic is the dark, blackish colour, as its name suggests. The colour of their workers is dark, like the Queen’s. They are hardy, easy to keep. In nature, they most often nest under stones in the ground.
Their nuptial flight generally takes place from late spring to late summer. Their flight is favoured by slightly overcast weather, when it is not so hot. The queens are most often seen on the edges of paving stones, on gravel quite close to the grass. They can almost only be collected from the wild when swarming, as they often nest underground.
Black garden ants are a very fast-growing species, so a single adult colony can number several thousand (up to 10,000) workers. It is a monogynous species, so you can keep one queen in a test tube/formicarium. During their development, cocoon appears. From puppy to adult worker, about. 6-8 weeks are needed. The Queen could live up to 15 years.
Lasius niger is a hibernating species. Hibernation is recommended from the end of October to the end of March. During this period, the right temperature is 5-8 degrees Celsius. Depending on the number of workers, hibernation can be done in a test tube or in a formicarium. Keep them in a dark place and do not disturb them by moving them.
They like small insects and worms for food. It is essential that they are fed only sterile food, as insects caught outside may carry pathogens at higher rates, which could lead to the death of the colony. Honey and sugar water are also suitable. Water supplies should always be available for them.
Attention!
It can bite lightly, so it is not recommended to hold it. No liability for any injury, accident or damage caused by this species. The buyer accepts this and buys with this knowledge. The displayed product image is protected by copyright, and its use requires permission. The picture is an illustration.
- You can find useful videos about them on our TikTok channel.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.