Tetramorium semilaeve – Mediterranean black ant
Tetramorium semilaeve is a small but robust ant species found in the Mediterranean region. This species is known for its strong adaptability, high activity, and typical "street ant" behavior. In the wild, they often live in dry, open areas and nest under stones, in the ground, or between paving.
Worker ants of Tetramorium semilaeve are very active and form distinct foraging paths to food sources. Wherever food is offered, the colony quickly mobilizes a large number of workers. This results in lively and dynamic behavior in a formicarium.
The colony grows at a good pace and can eventually develop into a large colony. Due to their robust nature and simple care, this strain is suitable for both beginners and experienced ant keepers.
Specifications
Scientific name: Tetramorium semilaeve
Dutch entry: Mediterranean street ant
Distribution area: Southern Europe and the Mediterranean
Color of the ant: Dark brown to black
Difficulty level: 2 / 5
Size: 6 – 7 mm
Worker size: 2 – 3.5 mm
Soldier size: Not present
Temperature: 20 – 28°C
Optimal temperature: 23 – 26°C
Winter dormancy: Yes, light winter dormancy (November through February around 10 – 15°C)
Growth rate: Average to fast
Maximum age of queen: approximately 10 – 15 years
Maximum age of worker bees: Approximately 1 – 2 years
Grow to a number of workers: +- 5,000 – 10,000+ workers
Subfamily: Myrmicinae
Foundation: Claustral (queen can start independently without food)
Colony formation: most common monogynous (1 queen), but can also tolerate multiple queens in some cases (polygyny possible)
Power supply
Tetramorium semilaeve is an omnivorous ant species with a broad diet.
Diet: small insects such as Dubia cockles, redrunners, mealworms, and other protein sources.
Sugars: such as honeydew, sugar water, Byformica sunburst and beetlejelly.
For a healthy colony, it is important to regularly provide protein for the development of the brood.
Care
This species prefers a dry to slightly damp nest and a warm environment. In the wild, they often live in dry soil, so a nest that is too wet must be ruled out.
Due to their small size and activity, good outbreak prevention important .
From how many workers to a nest: +- 35 workers
Nest type:
3D nest, Ytong nest, acrylic nest, plaster nest, sand/loam nest.
Tetramorium semilaeve is a hardy and adaptable species that is relatively undemanding, making it ideal for beginner ant keepers.
✅ Why choose Tetramorium semilaeve
• Strong and robust ant species
• Active foraging behavior with clear paths
• Fast response to food
• Suitable for beginners and advanced adversaries
• Can form large colonies
