Myrmica ruginodis - "European Fire Ant / Woodland Red Ant"
Myrmica ruginodis is a widespread and common ant species known for its reddish-brown coloration and distinctive features, such as long, slender antennal scapes with a gentle curve at the base. They are often confused with Myrmica rubra, but can be distinguished by the length and shape of the propodeal spines and the petiole node. Workers are typically 4-6mm long, and queens are slightly larger, ranging from 5.5-7mm. This species is known for being active hunters, readily stinging prey and potential threats, though their sting is often compared to a stinging nettle. They are a hardy and adaptable species, capable of thriving in various environments.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Origin & Habitat: Europe, Northern Asia (Transpalaearctic distribution) in Cooler habitats, including all kinds of forests, scrublands, alpine meadows, woodland clearings, moorlands, bogs, grasslands, and urban/suburban areas. They typically avoid very wet or very dry open sites..
- Colony Type: Polygynous (multiple queens), though some populations can be monogynous (single queen). There are also two recognized forms, 'macrogyna' with larger queens and 'microgyna' with queens similar in size to workers., semi-claustral (queen forages for food during founding stage) founding.
- Size & Growth:
- Queen: 5.5-7mm
- Worker: 4-6mm
- Colony: Medium (typically around a thousand workers or more, with reports of up to 2,500-10,000 workers). Medium growth.
- Antkeeping:
- Temperature: Preferred temperature range is 18-26°C. They are adapted to cooler temperatures and do not typically require heating, though partial heating of the nest is an option..
- Humidity: High humidity is crucial for this species, with preferred levels of 50-80%. They are prone to drying out, so regular hydration of the nest is essential..
- Diapause: Required. 3-5 months at 5-15°C.
- Nesting: They readily nest in soil, under rocks, in tufts of grass, or in rotten wood. For artificial setups, they do well in most formicariums, but wooden or dry 3D-printed nests are not recommended due to high humidity needs..
- Behavior: Medium (towards handler if provoked, high towards prey or other ants) aggressiveness.
- Common Issues: Dehydration, Lack of consistent food source during founding, Mold in nest (due to high humidity if not managed well).
One unique aspect of Myrmica ruginodis colonies is their variable queen count. While many colonies are polygynous, housing multiple queens, some populations exhibit a monogynous structure with just a single queen. Interestingly, there are two recognized queen forms: 'macrogynes' which are notably larger than workers, and 'microgynes' whose size is comparable to that of workers. This diversity in queen morphology and colony structure makes observing a Myrmica ruginodis colony particularly fascinating, as their social dynamics can differ significantly between setups.
Keeping Myrmica ruginodis successfully hinges on maintaining high humidity within their formicarium. These ants are highly susceptible to desiccation, so providing a consistent water source and ensuring the nest stays adequately moist is paramount. Regular hydration of the nest, whether through a water reservoir in a test tube setup or consistent moistening of a formicarium, will prevent issues like colony stalling or even fatalities. They prefer damp environments, mimicking their natural habitat of moist woodlands and bogs, so don't let their living space dry out!
Myrmica ruginodis queens are semi-claustral, meaning they venture out to forage for food during the crucial founding stage before their first workers arrive. This contrasts with fully claustral species where the queen relies solely on her fat reserves. Therefore, it's essential to offer small amounts of sugary liquids and protein to a founding queen to support her and her nascent brood. Once workers are present, they are opportunistic feeders, readily accepting various insect proteins and sugary treats like honey water or ant jellies.
While Myrmica ruginodis are generally considered less aggressive towards humans than their close relatives, Myrmica rubra, they are still capable of delivering a sting if provoked. Their sting, though potent, is often likened to a stinging nettle sensation and typically causes only mild, temporary discomfort. When handling, always exercise caution and consider wearing gloves, especially if you have sensitive skin or known allergies to insect stings. Observing their behavior without disturbing the nest directly is always the best practice.
