Crematogaster scelerata

Crematogaster scelerata

Crematogaster scelerata is a small to medium-sized ant species native to the Neotropical region, found across Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay ^[1]. Workers are typically 3-5mm in length and feature the characteristic heart-shaped abdomen that gives Crematogaster ants their common name 'acrobat ants', they can raise their abdomen over their head when threatened ^[1]. This species is classified in the Myrmicinae subfamily and the Crematogastrini tribe.

This is a common and widespread species in Brazil, particularly in forest edge habitats in the north of Mato Grosso where it was recorded at 66.7% frequency across sampling sites ^[2]. It demonstrates adaptability to human-modified landscapes, having been found in both eucalyptus plantations and soybean crops in the Pampean grasslands region ^[3].

Quick Summary

• Difficulty: Medium
• Origin & Habitat: Native to the Neotropical region, Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. Found in forest edges, transitional areas between forest and open habitat, and agricultural landscapes including eucalyptus plantations and soybean crops ^[2][3].
• Colony Type: Colony structure is unconfirmed. Most Crematogaster species are monogyne (single queen) but some can be polygyne. Further research needed to confirm the colony structure for this specific species.
• Size & Growth:
  • Queen: Estimated 6-8mm based on genus patterns ^[1]
  • Worker: 3-5mm ^[1]
  • Colony: Likely several hundred workers based on typical Crematogaster colony sizes. Exact maximum unknown.
  • Growth: Moderate, estimated based on genus patterns
  • Development: Estimated 6-8 weeks at optimal temperature based on typical Myrmicinae development ^[1] (Development time is estimated from genus patterns. Specific data for C. scelerata is unavailable.)
• Antkeeping:
  • Temperature: Keep at 22-26°C. As a Neotropical species, they prefer warm conditions. A heating cable on one side of the nest creates a suitable gradient ^[1].
  • Humidity: Moderate humidity around 50-70%. Keep the nest substrate slightly moist but not waterlogged. Allow some drier areas for the ants to regulate their own moisture needs.
  • Diapause: Unconfirmed. Neotropical species may not require strong diapause, but a slight cooling period during winter months may be beneficial.
  • Nesting: In nature, they likely nest in rotting wood, under bark, or in soil cavities. In captivity, a Y-tong (AAC) nest, plaster nest, or naturalistic setup with soil works well. They prefer tight, enclosed chambers.
• Behavior: Crematogaster ants are known for their acrobatic defense display, raising the abdomen over the thorax and head when threatened. They have a functional stinger but rarely use it on humans. Workers are active foragers and will recruit nestmates to food sources. They are moderately aggressive when defending the colony. Escape prevention is important as they are small and can squeeze through small gaps.
• Common Issues: escape prevention is critical due to their small size, use fine mesh and tight-fitting lids, colonies may be slow to establish initially, patience is needed during founding phase, wild-caught colonies may carry parasites that can cause issues in captivity, overfeeding can lead to mold problems in nest setups, they are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, keep conditions stable

Nest Preferences

In the wild, Crematogaster scelerata nests in rotting wood, under loose bark, and in soil cavities in forest edge environments ^[2]. They show adaptability to different microhabitats, being found in transitional areas between forest and open habitat, as well as in human-modified agricultural landscapes ^[3]. For captive care, a Y-tong (AAC) nest with narrow chambers works well, or a plaster nest that can maintain consistent humidity. Naturalistic setups with soil and decorative elements also work, though they may be harder to observe. The key is providing tight, enclosed chambers that match their natural nesting preferences in cavities within wood or soil.

Feeding and Diet

Crematogaster ants are omnivorous, typically feeding on honeydew from aphids and scale insects, small insects and arthropods, and nectar. In captivity, offer a varied diet including sugar water or honey as a constant energy source, protein sources like small crickets, mealworms, or fruit flies, and occasional treats like small pieces of fruit. Feed protein 2-3 times per week and keep sugar water available at all times. Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours to prevent mold. This species is a generalist forager and should accept most standard ant foods. ^[1]

Temperature and Care

As a Neotropical species from Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay, Crematogaster scelerata prefers warmer temperatures in the range of 22-26°C. A heating cable placed on one side of the nest creates a temperature gradient allowing ants to regulate their own temperature. Avoid temperatures below 18°C or above 30°C. Room temperature within this range is usually suitable. Maintain moderate humidity around 50-70% in the nest area. Use a water test tube setup for humidity and ensure the nest substrate doesn't dry out completely. Avoid sudden temperature changes which can stress the colony. ^[1]

Behavior and Temperament

Crematogaster ants are named for their distinctive defensive behavior, when threatened, workers raise their heart-shaped abdomen over their head and thorax, giving them an 'acrobat' appearance. They have a functional stinger but typically rely on this display and chemical defenses rather than stinging. Workers are active foragers and use chemical trails to recruit nestmates to food sources. They are moderately aggressive when defending the colony but not considered particularly dangerous to humans. The small worker size (3-5mm) means escape prevention must be excellent, use fine mesh barriers and check for any gaps in housing regularly. ^[1]

Colony Establishment

When acquiring a colony, you may start with a queen or an established colony with workers. Queens are estimated at 6-8mm based on genus patterns. The founding phase likely follows typical Crematogaster patterns where the queen seals herself in a chamber and raises the first brood alone on stored fat reserves (claustral founding). This can take 6-8 weeks or longer until the first workers (nanitics) emerge. During this time, the queen needs dark, quiet conditions and should not be disturbed. Once workers emerge, the colony can be gradually introduced to normal care conditions. Growth is moderate, expect several months before you see significant colony growth. ^[1]

Frequently Asked Questions

References