Melophorus Queen, Medium – Furnace Ant

Known as furnace ants, all species of the melophorus genus thrive in hot conditions. Because of this, we recommend that they be kept in a warm location to ensure the colony develops at the correct pace. They can often feature a cast of major that resembles Pheidole. We had a lot of trouble catching these ladies, as they only come out during the hottest parts of the day, and they’re incredibly quick.

Known as furnace ants, all species of the melophorus genus thrive in hot conditions. Because of this, we recommend that they be kept in a warm location to ensure the colony develops at the correct pace. More in description below.

Species at a glance

• Care Level: Medium
• Founding Type: Claustral
• Queen size: 8-12mm
• Worker size: 4-5mm

Setup

At the founding stage, a test tube setup or founding chamber with a water source is sufficient. Once the number of workers exceeds ~25, they should be moved into a small nest.

Diet

Queens do not require feeding until workers arrive. When workers arrive, feed sugars and protein regularly.