Temnothorax bimbache

Temnothorax bimbache

Temnothorax bimbache is a small, colorful ant species endemic to El Hierro in the Canary Islands. Workers measure 3.4-4.1mm and queens reach 4.9-5.5mm, making them typical of the genus in size ^[1]. What makes these ants visually striking is their bicolored pattern: the head and gaster are deep brown, while the mesosoma (the middle body section) is a distinctive orange-reddish color ^[1]. The legs are brownish, contrasting with the orange-reddish mesosoma, while the mandibles and antennae are orange ^[1]. They have notably long propodeal spines and large eyes, with 16-19 ommatidia in the longest row ^[1].

This species was only described in 2007 and is named after the 'bimbaches', the former aboriginal cave-inhabitants of El Hierro ^[1]. They nest under small volcanic stones in shallow soil (the first 2cm) but also utilize the holes and voids within the porous volcanic rock itself ^[1]. The nests show a specific orientation, stones protected by vegetation and placed on the northern face of the terrain ^[1]. This is a very rare species known only from El Hierro, making it a special find for antkeepers interested in unique species.

Quick Summary

• Difficulty: Medium
• Origin & Habitat: El Hierro in the Canary Islands. In the wild, they nest under small volcanic stones in shallow soil and rock voids, typically in protected spots with vegetation on northern-facing slopes ^[1].
• Colony Type: Likely monogyne (single queen) based on typical Temnothorax patterns. Founding type is likely claustral, the queen seals herself in and raises the first workers on stored fat reserves, as is typical for this genus.
  • Colony: Monogyne
  • Founding: Claustral
• Size & Growth:
  • Queen: 4.9-5.5mm ^[1]
  • Worker: 3.4-4.1mm ^[1]
  • Colony: Unknown for this newly described species, but typical Temnothorax colonies reach 100-500 workers
  • Growth: Moderate, typical for small Myrmicinae ants
  • Development: Estimated 6-10 weeks based on typical Temnothorax development at room temperature (Development time is estimated from genus-level data since specific timing has not been documented for this species)
• Antkeeping:
  • Temperature: Keep at room temperature, roughly 20-24°C. Being from the Canary Islands, they prefer warmer conditions but can adapt to typical indoor temperatures. A slight gradient is beneficial.
  • Humidity: Moderate humidity. In nature they nest under stones in volcanic rock voids, which suggests they tolerate some dryness but need access to moisture. Keep the nest substrate lightly moist but not waterlogged.
  • Diapause: Likely mild or no true diapause, being from a subtropical island, they may only slow down slightly in winter rather than entering full hibernation. However, this has not been directly studied.
  • Nesting: Y-tong (AAC) nests work well for these small ants. They also do well in test tube setups or plaster nests. The key is providing tight chambers scaled to their tiny size and some sort of stone or rocky surface they can nest under or against, mimicking their natural volcanic stone habitat.
• Behavior: These are peaceful, non-aggressive ants. Like most Temnothorax, they are relatively docile and won't bite aggressively. Workers are active foragers that search for small prey and honeydew. Their small size (under 4mm) means escape prevention is important, they can squeeze through tiny gaps. They are not known for stinging.
• Common Issues: small size means escapes are likely without fine mesh barriers, limited distribution makes wild collection difficult and potentially harmful to populations, specific volcanic stone habitat needs may be hard to replicate exactly, slow colony growth can frustrate beginners, queen mortality during founding is common if disturbed

Housing and Nest Setup

Temnothorax bimbache does well in Y-tong (AAC) nests, which provide the tight chambers and smooth surfaces these small ants prefer. Test tube setups also work well, especially for founding colonies. The key is providing chambers scaled to their tiny 3-4mm worker size, avoid large, open spaces. In nature, they nest under volcanic stones and in rock voids, so adding a small flat stone or piece of porous material to the outworld can help them feel at home. A small water tube for humidity is sufficient, they don't need high humidity like some tropical species. Keep the nest area dark or dimly lit, as these ants prefer sheltered locations ^[1].

Feeding and Diet

Like other Temnothorax species, these ants are omnivorous. They will readily accept small insects like fruit flies, pinhead crickets, and other tiny prey. Sugar sources are also important, offer diluted honey, sugar water, or ant-friendly sugar gels. They likely collect honeydew in the wild, so protein and sugar both matter. Feed small amounts a few times per week, removing any uneaten prey after 24 hours to prevent mold. A constant sugar source is recommended for established colonies.

Temperature and Seasonal Care

Being from El Hierro in the Canary Islands, these ants prefer warmer conditions than many European Temnothorax species. Keep them at 20-24°C for optimal activity and brood development. Room temperature is usually suitable. They may not need a true diapause given their subtropical origin, but you can reduce temperatures slightly in winter (to around 15-18°C) to simulate slower seasonal activity. Avoid temperatures below 15°C or above 28°C. A heating cable on one side of the nest can create a beneficial gradient if your room is cool.

Colony Founding

The founding behavior of T. bimbache has not been directly observed, but based on typical Temnothorax patterns, it is likely claustral. The queen seals herself in a small chamber and raises the first workers (nanitics) on energy from her stored fat reserves. She does not leave to forage during this time. Queens are 4.9-5.5mm with substantial body reserves ^[1]. The first workers should emerge in 6-10 weeks depending on temperature. During founding, keep the queen undisturbed in a dark, stable environment.

Behavior and Temperament

Temnothorax bimbache is a peaceful species that does well in captivity. Workers are active and will forage in the outworld for food. They are not aggressive and rarely bite. However, their small size (workers are only 3.4-4.1mm) means they can escape through very tiny gaps. Excellent escape prevention is essential, use fine mesh on any ventilation holes and ensure lid seals are tight. They are not known to sting. Colonies are likely single-queen (monogyne) based on typical genus behavior. ^[1]

Frequently Asked Questions

References