Myrmica lonae - "Myrmica lonae"
Myrmica lonae is a relatively rare red ant species, often confused with Myrmica sabuleti due to their similar appearance. They are distinguishable by differences in their antennae, specifically an extremely well-developed, large lobe at the base of the scape that is raised above the dorsal plane of the scape, and a somewhat narrower frons. Workers are reddish-yellow and typically measure 4-5 mm in length. These ants are known for their preference for cooler, more humid environments, particularly in mountainous regions. They are semi-claustral, meaning the queen will forage for food during the founding stage of the colony.
- Difficulty: Medium
- Origin & Habitat: Europe, Asia Minor, Caucasus, West Siberian Plain, Northern Kazakhstan. in Humid meadows, high mountains, under stones, in moss, in soil, often under fallen trees. Can also be found in open pine and mixed forests..
- Colony Type: Polygyne (multiple queens), semi-claustral (queen forages) founding.
- Size & Growth:
- Queen: 6-7mm
- Worker: 4-5mm
- Colony: Medium (few thousands). Slow at the beginning, increasing over time. Expect 20-40 workers in the first year after swarming, reaching a few hundred in the second year, and several thousand in a fully developed colony. growth.
- Antkeeping:
- Temperature: Maintain a temperature range of 21-26°C. While they prefer cooler, humid environments, a consistent temperature within this range is suitable for captive colonies..
- Humidity: Humidity should be maintained between 60-90%. This species thrives in moist conditions, mirroring their natural habitat..
- Diapause: Required. 4-4 months at 5-8°C.
- Nesting: They prefer digging nests in soil, often under stones or fallen trees in nature. For artificial setups, ytong nests or dirt setups with good moisture retention are suitable..
- Behavior: Medium (towards food or other ants, but harmless to humans) aggressiveness.
- Common Issues: Mold in nest, Mites, Colony stalling due to insufficient feeding during semi-claustral phase, Humidity fluctuations, Lack of proper diapause.
One key aspect of keeping Myrmica lonae is their semi-claustral founding. Unlike fully claustral queens who seal themselves off to raise their first workers, Myrmica lonae queens need to forage for food during this initial period. This means you'll need to provide small insects to your founding queen to ensure she has the necessary protein to sustain herself and her developing brood. Neglecting this crucial step can lead to a failed colony establishment.
Myrmica lonae colonies are polygynous, meaning they can have multiple queens. This is an exciting trait for antkeepers, as it can lead to larger and more robust colonies compared to monogyne species. When acquiring a colony, consider if you'd like to start with a single queen or multiple queens, keeping in mind that more queens might accelerate colony growth once established.
These ants require a distinct diapause period to remain healthy. From late November to March, it's recommended to cool their setup to a temperature between 5-8°C. This mimics their natural hibernation cycle and is vital for the long-term health and reproductive success of the colony. Failing to provide adequate diapause can shorten the queen's lifespan and negatively impact brood production.
Their diet is omnivorous, with a strong emphasis on insects for protein, especially for the queen and larvae. Along with honey or sugar water for carbohydrates, a consistent supply of various small insects like fruit flies, mealworms, or crickets is essential. Ensuring a diverse and protein-rich diet will contribute significantly to the colony's vitality and growth. Keep in mind that pupae of Myrmica lonae do not spin cocoons, appearing white and ant-shaped.
Maintaining high humidity is paramount for Myrmica lonae. Their natural habitat is typically cool and humid, often found in moist environments like grasslands and forests. In a formicarium, this translates to keeping the nest consistently moist, ideally between 60-90% humidity. Materials like ytong or natural soil setups can help achieve and maintain these elevated humidity levels, which are critical for preventing desiccation and promoting healthy brood development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of formicarium is best for Myrmica lonae?
For Myrmica lonae, formicariums that excel at maintaining high humidity are ideal. Ytong nests or natural dirt setups are excellent choices, as they allow for good moisture retention. Small colonies can start in a test tube setup with access to a foraging area, while larger colonies will thrive in more expansive nests that mimic their natural underground environments.
How often should I feed Myrmica lonae?
Given their semi-claustral founding, queens need to be fed regularly during the initial stages. Once the colony is established, offer a mix of carbohydrates (like honey or sugar water) and protein (various small insects) several times a week. Adjust frequency based on colony size and consumption, ensuring they always have access to fresh food.
Do Myrmica lonae sting?
Yes, Myrmica lonae workers do possess stingers. However, their sting is generally considered harmless to humans, often described as similar to a nettle sting or a mild wasp sting, resulting in localized swelling and itching. While not medically significant for most, caution is always advised during handling.
What is diapause and why is it important for Myrmica lonae?
Diapause is a period of inactivity, similar to hibernation, that Myrmica lonae requires during the colder months (November to March). It’s crucial for their long-term health, queen longevity, and reproductive cycle. Maintaining temperatures between 5-8°C during this time helps simulate their natural winter conditions.
How fast do Myrmica lonae colonies grow?
Myrmica lonae colonies exhibit a slow growth rate initially but accelerate over time. In the first year after the nuptial flight, a queen might only raise 20-40 workers. By the second year, the colony can reach a few hundred workers, and mature colonies can become quite populous, housing several thousand individuals.
Can Myrmica lonae have multiple queens?
Yes, Myrmica lonae are polygynous, meaning their colonies can house multiple queens. This is a common and beneficial trait for this species, as it contributes to the potential for larger and more resilient colony growth.
What do Myrmica lonae larvae look like?
Myrmica lonae offspring develop without pupal cocoons, so their pupal stage appears white and ant-shaped. The larvae themselves are typically yellowish-white, transparent, and maggot-like, needing to be fed by adult workers.
Are Myrmica lonae good for beginners?
Myrmica lonae are rated as 'Medium' difficulty. While not as straightforward as beginner species like Lasius niger, their semi-claustral founding and specific humidity/temperature requirements mean they are more suited for antkeepers with some prior experience or those willing to dedicate extra attention to their unique needs.
What should I do if my Myrmica lonae queen isn't laying eggs?
If your Myrmica lonae queen isn't laying eggs, especially after a nuptial flight, ensure she has had a proper diapause period and is receiving adequate protein. As semi-claustral queens, they need to be fed. Some queens might also hold off laying until after diapause. Patience and consistent feeding are key.
How long does it take for an egg to become a worker in Myrmica lonae?
For Myrmica lonae, the development from egg to adult worker takes approximately six weeks. This period can vary slightly depending on factors like temperature and nutrient availability.
Are there any common pests or issues to watch out for with Myrmica lonae?
Like many ant species, Myrmica lonae can be susceptible to common antkeeping issues such as mold in the nest, mites, or colony stalling, especially if feeding during their semi-claustral phase is insufficient or humidity fluctuates wildly. Maintaining proper hygiene and environmental conditions is crucial for prevention.
What is the natural environment of Myrmica lonae?
Myrmica lonae naturally inhabit cooler, more humid environments, particularly in high mountainous regions. They construct their nests in the soil, often seeking shelter under stones or fallen trees. They can also be found in humid heathlands and open pine or mixed forests.
How large can a Myrmica lonae colony get?
A fully developed Myrmica lonae colony can become quite populous, potentially reaching several thousand workers. While initial growth is slow, these polygynous colonies can expand considerably over time.
