Messor barbarus

Description

Species description of Messor barbarus

Messor barbarus ants present a distinct polymorphism, meaning that within a single colony there are individuals that differ in size and function. The queen, which is the largest individual in the colony, can reach up to 14-16 mm in length. The worker bees are smaller and can be divided into several castes, depending on their size: from the smaller ones, about 3-6 mm long, to the so-called supermajors, which can measure up to 14 mm and are characterised by large heads used for grinding seeds.

One of the most distinctive features of Messor barbarus is their mainly seed-based diet. These ants are excellent collectors, able to transport seeds much larger than themselves to the nest. In the nest, the seeds are stored or processed into “ant bread” – the colony’s primary food source. In addition to seeds, these ants can also eat insects, which adds a bit of protein to their diet.

Messor barbarus are also known for their building skills. They create elaborate nests underground, consisting of numerous chambers and tunnels. In the wild, these nests can be very extensive and deep, which is an added attraction when rearing these ants at home.

Difficulty of breeding Messor barbarus

Breeding Messor barbarus is relatively straightforward, making them an excellent choice for novice ant enthusiasts. Their mainly seed-based diet makes for easy maintenance and eliminates the need for a constant supply of live food.

Breeding instructions for Messor barbarus

Providing a suitable environment for Messor barbarus requires a formicarium with sufficient space for the growing colony and space for seed storage. Regular watering of the nest is crucial to ensure the right level of humidity necessary for the larvae to develop. The most important thing when rearing Messor barbarus, is to provide them with as much peace and quiet as possible. The ants are very sensitive to all shocks and to light. Especially at the very beginning of breeding, it is crucial to provide them with maximum peace and quiet. Then they will quickly repay you with plenty of beautiful offspring.

The first days after buying Messor barbarus

Once you have received a Messor barbarus colony, it is important to place the formicarium in a quiet place and give the ants time to acclimatise. In the first few days, minimise disturbance and observe the behaviour of the colony to ensure that the ants are adapting correctly to their new environment. Make sure the ants have constant access to water and to grains. Only when the ants have reached about 20-30 workers, think about moving them into their first, small formicarium.

Guide to raising Messor barbarus