Colobopsis shohki

Colobopsis shohki

Colobopsis shohki is a small arboreal ant native to the Ryukyu Islands of Japan. Minor workers measure 2.5-3mm while major workers (soldiers) reach 4.5-5mm ^[1]. They have a distinctive appearance with yellowish brown to reddish brown head and mesosoma, and a black gaster. Major workers are easily recognized by their elongated heads (over 1.10mm long) with a pair of blunt projections on the anterior margin visible in full-face view ^[1]. This species is arboreal, meaning it nests in trees and woody vegetation rather than in soil ^[1][2]. It is closely related to Camponotus and was previously classified under that genus. The species has been documented with its own virus (Colobopsis shohki virus 1), showing it's been studied at the molecular level ^[3].

Quick Summary

• Difficulty: Medium
• Origin & Habitat: Nansei Islands (Ryukyu Islands) of Japan, from Yoron-jima Island southwards, including Tokuno-shima, Okinawa, and Yonaguni-jima. Also found in the Daito Islands ^[1][2]. This is a subtropical island environment with a warm, humid climate. The species is arboreal, nesting in woody vegetation rather than soil.
• Colony Type: Colony structure is unconfirmed. Based on typical Colobopsis and Camponotini patterns, colonies likely have a single queen (monogyne). Further research is needed to confirm colony size and social structure.
• Size & Growth:
  • Queen: Unknown, not documented in available literature
  • Worker: Minor workers: 2.5-3mm, Major workers: 4.5-5mm ^[1]
  • Colony: Unknown, no colony size data available
  • Growth: Unknown, not directly studied
  • Development: Estimated 6-10 weeks based on typical Camponotini development at optimal temperature (Development time is inferred from related Camponotus species. No direct measurements available for this species.)
• Antkeeping:
  • Temperature: Keep at 22-26°C. This subtropical species prefers warm conditions similar to its island habitat. A gentle temperature gradient allows workers to regulate their conditions.
  • Humidity: High humidity is essential, aim for 70-80% relative humidity. As an arboreal species, they are accustomed to humid forest conditions. Keep nest substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged.
  • Diapause: Likely minimal or no true diapause given the subtropical origin. However, a slight reduction in temperature during winter months (down to around 18-20°C) may be beneficial to simulate seasonal changes.
  • Nesting: This is an arboreal species, they naturally nest in hollow twigs, branches, and tree cavities. In captivity, they do well in Y-tong (AAC) nests or naturalistic setups with vertical woody materials. Avoid soil-based nests, provide wooden or cork-like structures they can inhabit.
• Behavior: Colobopsis shohki is a relatively calm, non-aggressive species. As an arboreal ant, they are skilled climbers and may escape if given the opportunity. Major workers use their enlarged heads to block nest entrances, this is a defensive adaptation. They are not known to sting and pose no danger to keepers. Workers are active and foragers, likely hunting small prey in their arboreal habitat.
• Common Issues: arboreal nature means they require vertical nest setups, horizontal test tube setups may not be suitable, escape prevention is important despite their small size, they can squeeze through small gaps, high humidity requirements can lead to mold issues if ventilation is poor, lack of documented care information means keepers must adapt from related species, slow colony growth can frustrate beginners, patience is essential

Housing and Nest Setup

Colobopsis shohki requires an arboreal-style setup since they naturally nest in woody vegetation. The best options include Y-tong (acrylic) nests with narrow chambers, or naturalistic setups featuring cork, hollow twigs, or wooden structures. Avoid traditional test tube setups laid horizontally, these don't match their natural arboreal lifestyle. A formicarium with vertical or angled chambers works better. Since they are climbers, ensure all connections between nest and outworld are secure with fluon barriers. The nest should provide dark, humid chambers while allowing some ventilation to prevent mold. Place the nest in a warm area of your setup, around 24-26°C. ^[1][2]

Feeding and Diet

Based on related Camponotus species, Colobopsis shohki likely has a varied diet. They probably consume honeydew (offer sugar water or honey weekly), and hunt small insects for protein. Offer small prey items like fruit flies, pinhead crickets, or small mealworms. Since they are arboreal hunters, live prey is likely preferred. Feed protein sources 2-3 times per week, and keep a constant sugar water supply. Remove uneaten prey after 24-48 hours to prevent mold. Fresh water should always be available.

Temperature and Humidity

Maintain temperatures between 22-26°C, with a slight gradient if possible. This subtropical species comes from the warm, humid Ryukyu Islands and does not tolerate cool conditions. Humidity should be kept high at 70-80%. The nest substrate should remain consistently moist, check regularly and mist if needed, but avoid standing water. Good ventilation is important to prevent mold while maintaining humidity. A small water reservoir in the outworld can help maintain ambient moisture. Avoid placing the setup near air conditioning or drafty areas. ^[1]

Colony Founding and Growth

When a queen is acquired, she should be placed in a small founding setup, a small test tube or vial with a damp cotton ball works for the initial claustral period (if confirmed). The queen will likely seal herself in and survive on stored fat reserves until her first workers emerge. First workers (nanitics) will be smaller than normal minors. Growth rate is unknown but likely moderate, similar to related Camponotus species. Expect 6-10 weeks from egg to first worker at optimal temperature. Colonies will grow slowly at first, patience is essential. Major workers (soldiers) appear as the colony matures and may constitute a significant portion of the workforce in mature colonies.

Behavior and Defense

This is a calm, non-aggressive species. Major workers have a specialized defensive adaptation, their enlarged, truncated heads act as living plugs to block nest entrances. This is a common trait in Colobopsis species. They are not known to sting and pose no danger to keepers. Workers are active foragers, likely hunting small arthropods in their arboreal environment. They are skilled climbers and may explore vertical spaces. Observe their behavior to understand individual colony patterns, each colony can have unique tendencies. ^[1]

Seasonal Care

As a subtropical species from the Ryukyu Islands, Colobopsis shohki does not require true hibernation. However, slight seasonal adjustments may benefit the colony. During winter months (roughly November-February in the Northern Hemisphere), you can reduce temperatures to around 18-20°C and reduce feeding frequency. Do not cool them dramatically, they are not cold-hardy. Maintain humidity even in winter, as indoor heating can dry out the nest. Resume normal feeding and temperatures in spring to stimulate colony growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

References