Characteristics of Tetramorium caespitum
Tetramorium caespitum is a European species, also known as the pavement ant. Its main characteristic refers to its name, its place of occurrence. Its workers can often be seen near pavement.
Their nuptial flight generally takes place in late June, lasting up to a few weeks in several major cycles. But depending on the weather, they can also start at other times. Their flight is favoured by slightly overcast weather, when it is not so hot. Queens are most often seen on concrete and near pavement when they are looking for a new home to settle down. They can almost only be collected from the wild when swarming, as they often nest underground.
It is quite a fast-growing species, with a single adult moth reaching numbers of several thousand workers. It is a monogynous species, so you can keep one queen in a test tube/formicarium. During their development, cocoon does not appear. From puppy to adult worker, about. 6-8 weeks are needed. The queen could live up to 20 years.
Tetramorium caespitum 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. Hibernation can be done in a test tube or a formicarium, depending on the number of workers. Keep them in a dark place and do not disturb them by moving them.
They like small insects and worms for food, but not whole. 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, sugar water, seeds are also suitable for them. Water supplies should always be available for them.
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