Please note: this species is difficult to import from its country of origin, meaning they often don't survive the journey. Our supply is therefore very limited.

Polyrhachis dives – Asian weaver ant

Polyrhachis dives is a remarkable and very active ant species from Southeast Asia. This species is known for its striking spines on the body, glossy appearance, and unique nest construction. Unlike many other ant species, colonies of Polyrhachis dives use larvae to weave nesting material together. This results in natural nests made of leaves, moss, and other materials.

Worker ants are very active and spend a lot of time foraging. When food is found, other workers are quickly recruited. Due to their high activity and striking appearance, they are among the most fascinating ant species in the hobby.

A distinctive feature of Polyrhachis dives is that colonies can often contain multiple queens. As a result, well-established colonies can grow relatively quickly and reach an impressive number of workers.

Due to their tropical origin, these ants do not require hibernation. With sufficient warmth and high humidity, colonies can remain active all year round.

Specifications

Scientific name: Polyrhachis dives
Dutch name: Asian weaver ant
Distribution area: China, Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, and other parts of Southeast Asia
Ant color: Black to dark brown with silvery hairs
Difficulty level: 3 / 5
Queen size: approximately 12 – 15 mm
Worker size: approximately 6 – 8 mm
Soldier size: Not present
Temperature: approximately 24 – 30°C
Optimal temperature: approximately 26 – 28°C
Holidaying: No wintering necessary
Growth rate: Average to fast under optimal conditions
Maximum queen lifespan: several years under good conditions
Maximum worker lifespan: approximately 1 – 2 years
Development to worker numbers: several thousand workers possible
Subfamily: Formicinae
Foundation: Semi-claustral; young queens require feeding during founding
Colony formation: Often polygynous, multiple queens per colony possible

Power supply

Polyrhachis dives is an omnivorous ant species that requires both sugar-rich food and animal protein.

Diet: insects such as redrunners, crickets, mealworms, buffalo worms, fruit flies, and dubia cockroaches.

Sugars: for example Byformica Sunburst Ant Nectar, sugar water, honey water and other suitable nectar food.

Due to their high activity, colonies consume relatively large amounts of food. A regular supply of both proteins and carbohydrates is important for healthy development.

Fresh drinking water must always be available.

Care

Polyrhachis dives prefers a warm and humid environment. A humidity of approximately 60–80% is recommended. Unlike many European species, these ants do not feel at home in dry nests.

Many keepers choose to keep this species in a naturally decorated terrarium or large arena where the colony can produce its own nesting material. Branches, leaves, moss, and artificial plants are often used as a base for nest building.

From how many workers to a nest: approximately 30 – 50 workers

Recommended nest type: Polyrhachis formicarium

Due to their climbing behavior and activity, good escape protection is important. A spacious enclosure ensures that their natural behavior is more visible.

✅ Why choose Polyrachis dives

• Unique Asian weaver ant
• Striking spines and silvery hairs
• Can weave natural nests using larval silk
• Very active foraging behavior
• No hibernation required
• Multiple queens often possible
• Beautiful tropical species for terrarium keepers
• One of the most remarkable ant species in the hobby