Myrmica deplanata - "Flattened Myrmica Ant"
Myrmica deplanata is a lesser-known ant species within the Myrmica genus, often noted for its preference for warm, dry, and stony habitats. Workers are typically reddish-brown and exhibit characteristics common to Myrmica, such as a two-segmented petiole and a painful sting, though generally compared to a nettle sting in humans. While not as abundant as some other Myrmica species, they are found across a wide distribution, primarily in steppe-like environments. The name 'deplanata' itself refers to a 'flattened' propodeum dorsum, suggesting a slightly flatter appearance compared to some relatives like Myrmica scabrinodis.
- Difficulty: Medium
- Origin & Habitat: Europe, Asia (primarily Palaearctic region) in Steppes and steppe-like habitats at low altitudes, preferring stony sites with sparse vegetation. Nests are built in the soil, often under stones in areas that can become very hot during summer..
- Colony Type: Polygyne (multiple queens), semi-claustral (queen forages) founding.
- Size & Growth:
- Queen: 5.5-7.0mm
- Worker: 3.0-5.5mm
- Colony: Medium (thousands). Medium. While initially slow, growth accelerates with the presence of multiple queens. growth.
- Antkeeping:
- Temperature: Optimal nest temperature is around 21-25°C. It is beneficial to provide a heated area for the brood while keeping the rest of the nest at a moderate temperature..
- Humidity: Myrmica deplanata, like other Myrmica species, requires high humidity, ideally between 50-70%. The nest should be kept very moist over a large area..
- Diapause: Required. 3-5 months at 5-12°C.
- Nesting: This species prefers digging nests in the ground, often under stones. For artificial setups, highly humid setups like ytong nests or those with a moist slab are suitable, or a moist sand/clay mixture..
- Behavior: Medium (towards handler, food or other ants) aggressiveness.
- Common Issues: Humidity fluctuations, Overfeeding leading to waste, Queen stress, Mold in nest.
Keeping Myrmica deplanata means embracing their need for high humidity. These ants are native to environments where moisture is crucial, and neglecting this aspect in your formicarium can quickly lead to a struggling colony. Make sure your setup allows for a significant portion of the nest to remain consistently damp, whether through a water reservoir, regular re-wetting of a natural substrate, or an appropriate nest material like ytong that retains moisture well. Experimenting to find the perfect balance for your specific setup is key to their long-term health and growth.
Myrmica deplanata, like many of its Myrmica relatives, is known for its predatory nature. While they appreciate sugary liquids like honey or sugar water for energy, their larvae and queens heavily rely on protein for proper development. Offering a diverse range of feeder insects such as mealworms, crickets, or fruit flies will ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients. Always ensure your feeder insects are captive-bred to avoid introducing pesticides or diseases into your colony. Their hunting prowess makes them exciting to observe during feeding times.
A notable characteristic of Myrmica species is their ability to sting. While the sting of Myrmica deplanata is generally considered to be similar to a nettle sting and not dangerous to humans, it can still be uncomfortable. Always exercise caution when performing maintenance on your colony or outworld to avoid unnecessary stings. Their aggressive temperament, especially when defending their nest, contributes to their effectiveness as hunters but also requires a mindful approach from the ant keeper.
Colony growth in Myrmica deplanata can be quite fascinating due to their polygynous nature, meaning they can have multiple queens in a single colony. While initial growth might seem slow, the presence of several egg-laying queens can lead to an exponential increase in worker numbers once the colony is established. This characteristic makes watching their population expand particularly rewarding, as you'll see a bustling formicarium with a strong workforce. Be prepared for their needs to scale with their numbers, particularly concerning protein and space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Myrmica deplanata good for beginners?
Myrmica deplanata is generally considered a medium difficulty species. While they aren't overly complicated, their specific humidity requirements and the fact that queens are semi-claustral (meaning they need to forage for food during founding) can present a slight challenge for complete beginners. However, with proper research and attention to their needs, a dedicated ant keeper can certainly succeed with them.
What kind of nest is best for Myrmica deplanata?
These ants thrive in setups that maintain high humidity. Ytong nests, naturalistic soil setups (like tubs and trays), or acrylic nests with large hydration areas are excellent choices. The key is to ensure the nest material can hold moisture effectively and that a good portion of the nest stays consistently damp, mimicking their natural subterranean homes under stones.
How often should I feed my Myrmica deplanata colony?
Myrmica deplanata are active foragers and, like many Myrmica species, don't store a lot of food internally. It's recommended to offer them sugary liquids and protein sources at least three times a week for optimal growth and health. Adjust the frequency and quantity based on your colony's size and consumption rate; a larger, more active colony will naturally need more food.
Do Myrmica deplanata sting, and does it hurt?
Yes, Myrmica deplanata can sting. Their sting is often compared to a nettle sting – it's generally not dangerous to humans but can be quite uncomfortable. Always handle your colony with care and avoid direct contact to prevent stings.
What should I feed Myrmica deplanata for protein?
Myrmica deplanata are avid hunters and need plenty of protein for their queen and brood. Excellent protein sources include small feeder insects like mealworms, crickets, fruit flies, and even boiled egg. Always make sure any insects you offer are from a reliable source to avoid introducing parasites or pesticides.
Is diapause necessary for Myrmica deplanata?
Yes, diapause (a period of hibernation) is essential for the long-term health and reproductive cycle of Myrmica deplanata. They require a cool period, typically for 3-5 months, at temperatures between 5-12°C. Mimicking their natural seasonal cycle helps prevent queen stress and ensures the colony's vitality for the next active season.
How many queens can a Myrmica deplanata colony have?
Myrmica deplanata is a polygynous species, meaning they can have multiple queens in a single colony. This allows for potentially larger and faster-growing colonies compared to monogyne (single queen) species. Observing multiple queens coexisting and contributing to the colony's expansion is a unique aspect of keeping this species.
What's the typical size of a mature Myrmica deplanata colony?
A mature Myrmica deplanata colony can reach sizes of several thousand workers. While initial growth might be slow, especially during the founding stage, the polygynous nature of this species allows them to eventually form substantial populations, making for a very active and engaging colony to observe.
Can I keep Myrmica deplanata in a test tube setup?
While initial founding can occur in a test tube setup, especially for smaller colonies, Myrmica deplanata will quickly outgrow it due to their active nature and need for high humidity. For established colonies, it's best to transition them to a formicarium that provides ample space, proper hydration, and a suitable substrate for digging and expanding their nest.
What are the signs of a healthy Myrmica deplanata colony?
A healthy Myrmica deplanata colony will show consistent foraging activity, a good amount of brood (eggs, larvae, pupae) in various stages of development, and workers actively tending to the queen and brood. They should be responsive to food offerings, and the nest should maintain appropriate humidity levels without excessive mold growth.
My Myrmica deplanata queen isn't laying many eggs; what could be wrong?
Several factors can affect queen egg-laying. Check your temperature and humidity levels to ensure they are within the optimal range. Lack of sufficient protein in their diet is a common culprit, so increase protein offerings. Stress from vibrations, light, or an unstable environment can also impact egg-laying. Ensure the colony is not overcrowded in their current setup, and consider if diapause is needed if the colony has been active for a long period.
