Odontoponera transversa

Description

Odontoponera transversa – predatory ants for advanced breeders

Odontoponera transversa is one of the more fascinating ant species from Southeast Asia, distinguished by its aggressive behaviour and unique physical characteristics. This species, while it can be challenging for beginner breeders, is sure to provide plenty of satisfaction and excitement for more experienced enthusiasts. These ants are known for the strong mandibles with which they hunt insects and for their incredible agility in moving across the ground.

Species description of Odontoponera transversa

Odontoponera transversa is a species of ant that inhabits the tropical and subtropical forests of Southeast Asia. In the wild, they live in forest litter and moist areas where they prey on other invertebrates. It is a species with a distinct caste of workers, which have a massive body structure adapted to catching and transporting prey. Their size varies: workers reach a length of about 8-10 mm, while the queen measures 11 to 13 mm.

These ants have a distinctive, glossy black-brown body that looks almost armoured. They are fast, agile and their hunting instinct is very well developed. This is why they are often chosen by more advanced breeders who want to observe the natural predatory behaviour of their charges.

Advantages of breeding Odontoponera transversa

• Predation – these ants are excellent hunters, actively hunting for food insects. Watching them hunt can provide a lot of excitement.
• Resilience – they are hardy ants that can withstand a variety of conditions, provided there is adequate moisture and warmth.
• Social behaviour – Odontoponera transversa exhibit strong social behaviour, such as hunting together, nest building and caring for offspring.

Breeding conditions for Odontoponera transversa

Odontoponera transversa require specific breeding conditions in order to function properly and grow their colony.

• Temperature – this species prefers temperatures between 24-28°C. It is advisable to provide adequate heating, especially in winter when the indoor temperature can drop.
• Humidity – the ideal humidity for this species is 60-80%. The nest should be moist but still airy. It is important that the formicarium has an effective irrigation system.
• Food – the diet of Odontoponera transversa is based on food insects such as flies, cockroaches, whitefly larvae or crickets. Due to the predatory behaviour of ants, feeding them live food can be fascinating to observe.
• Formicarium -It is important that the formicarium is equipped with an arena where the ants can hunt and store leftovers. 3D formicariums, earthen formicariums or formicariums with a substrate that imitates forest litter will work best.

Interesting facts about Odontoponera transversa

• Fast hunting – these ants are known for their lightning-fast attacks on prey, making them some of the most dynamic hunters among ants.
• Gripping power – The mandibles of this species are extremely strong, allowing them to catch and transport prey even much larger than themselves.
• Aggressive behaviour – Odontoponera transversa are known for their aggression in defending the nest. They are able to successfully fend off attacks from other insects.

Advantages of owning this species

Odontoponera transversa is a species for breeders who want to feel the thrill of observing the natural behaviour of predatory ants. Their fast movements, active hunting and strong social bonds make them one of the more interesting ants to breed at home. The colony develops quite quickly and the varied insect-based diet ensures that these ants will always be active.

Breeding instructions and advice

• Take care of the right substrate – peat substrate with added sand, imitating forest litter, is best.
• Feed live insects – although you can feed them dead insects, watching them hunt live prey is more rewarding.
• Keep moist – regular humidification of the formicarium is key. Use a hydration system or manually moisten the nest every few days.
• Avoid formicariums that are too small – these ants need space, especially the arena should be large enough for the ants to move freely in search of food.

If you are an experienced ant keeper and are looking for a species that will provide you with unforgettable excitement, Odontoponera transversa is the choice for you. Order this fascinating colony today and enjoy amazing observations in your formicarium. With our range, you can count on healthy, active colonies that will give you excitement every day!