Camponotus irritans

Description

Camponotus irritans: The fascinating face of Asian ants

Immerse yourself in the world of Camponotus irritans, a species native to the exotic regions of Southeast Asia. With moderate breeding difficulty and colourful colouration, these ants can become a real gem in any formicarium collection. If you are looking for a species that will provide exciting observations and a bit of a challenge, Camponotus irritans will be an excellent choice.

Detailed description of Camponotus irritans

Camponotus irritans is a species with a range of worker sizes (6 to 14 mm) and a noticeably larger queen (14-16 mm). Although they do not develop typical soldiers, individual workers can take on a variety of roles in the colony, from exploration to caring for offspring. Colouration varies between light and dark brown, often with contrasting accents, making them extremely visually appealing.

In the wild, they inhabit areas with high humidity and stable temperatures, making them best suited to formicaria with controlled humidity and temperatures between 24-28°C. Their diet is mainly based on sweet substances (such as honey or syrups) and protein in the form of feeder insects (e.g. whiteflies, crickets or cockroaches).

Advantages of breeding Camponotus irritans

• Medium difficulty of breeding – Although not as easy to maintain as low difficulty species, Camponotus irritans does not require specialised conditions beyond stable temperature and humidity, making them suitable for moderately experienced breeders.
• No hibernation – Unlike some other ant species, Camponotus irritans does not need a winter dormancy period. You can therefore enjoy observing the colony all year round.
• Attractive colouration – Darker shades, often contrasting between body segments, make the colony look interesting and easy to spot in the formicarium.
• Varied social behaviour – This species can be intensely active in foraging and defending the colony, making observation even more exciting.

Features of Camponotus irritans

• Polymorphic workers – Although they do not have typical ‘soldiers’, individual workers can vary in size and functions, perfectly reflecting the complex social structure of ants.
• Highly active – These ants are quite mobile, especially when feeding and exploring the formicarium, providing the keeper with a constant dose of excitement.
• Easy feeding – Camponotus irritans readily accept both sugary substances and animal protein, simplifying daily care.
• Protection from overheating – Although they need warmth, it is a good idea to maintain a constant temperature of around 24-28°C. Too high can cause stress to the colony and slow its growth.
• No need for overwintering – For many breeders, this is a convenient solution – they do not need to prepare a separate room or refrigerator to interrupt ant activity.

If you are fascinated by unconventional ant species and have already had your first experiences with breeding them, Camponotus irritans is a step forward on the path of this passion. With its distinctive colours, varied worker sizes and year-round development cycles, a colony of this species will give you an unforgettable experience. Don’t delay – order your kit today and start your adventure with this intriguing species as you discover the ever-changing micro-world of ants!