Acromyrmex octospinosus, the dream species of many ant keepers. A species that is also frequently shown on TV, for example in BBC documentaries (David Attenborough). A very recognizable species, and the most recognizable feature is that they walk back to their nest with leaves.
Note: when purchasing a leaf cutter colony you will also receive an extensive care sheet.
Specifications :
Scientific name : Acromyrmex octospinosus
Dutch name:/
Distribution area : South America
Color of the ant : red, brown, orangish
Difficulty level : 5/5
Queen size : 12-13 mm
Worker size : 5-12 mm
Soldier size: 10- 12
Temperature and humidity
Mold room
Temperature: 23-26 degrees
Humidity: 95-100%
Outside world
Temperature: 21-28 degrees
Humidity: 50-70%
Waste room
Temperature: 21-28 degrees
Humidity : 30%-60%
Winter dormancy: /
Growth rate: 4/5
Growing to number of workers: +- 20,000 workers
Subfamily: Myrmicinae
Foundation: claustral
Colony formation: monogynous (can have one queen per nest)
Nutrition: various types of fresh and dried leaves
Food requirement: high
Recommended nest type: Quality ants cylinder nest
Care:
Keep the nest temperature between 23C and 26C. In the wild, leafcutters are accustomed to an extremely stable temperature that varies around 1C underground all year round. The most important thing, however, is that you measure the temperature where the mold is located. Many people measure the temperature inside the housing and this is never accurate. You will need a thermometer with a probe that you can place in the nest. This is the only accurate way to measure the ants' temperature.
Humidity. The humidity of your nest is critical to the health of the colony. You try to get the relative humidity as close to 100% as possible. Many sources will tell you that anything above 80% is fine. This is not the case. You must also measure this humidity directly where the mold is located. A distance of a few cm can reduce the accuracy of the humidity measurement by many percent. Keep in mind that any cold surface acts as a dehumidifier, converting water vapor in the air back into liquid water. This means that the front viewing glass of your exhibit, which is normally the coldest part of your exhibit, is likely to become covered in condensation that obscures the view. Don't be tempted to lower the humidity to prevent this.
Difficulty
5 / 5
