Information type
Crematogaster scutellaris is an interesting species. Its name (scorpion ant) is derived from the position of the rear portion of its body (the gaster), which it holds up in a certain situation. This is seen when there's a threat to the colony, such as an insect trying to enter the nest. They'll handle this threat effectively! They excel at escaping and climbing, making them a very challenging species in that respect!
Specifications :
Scientific name: Crematogaster scutellaris
Dutch name: Red scorpion ant
Distribution area: Mediterranean Sea area
Color of the ant: red with black
Difficulty level: 3/5
Size queen: 7-9 mm
Size worker: 3-4 mm
Size soldier:/
Temperature: 19 to 28 degrees
Optimal temperature: 25-27 degrees
Humidity nest: 50 to 60%
Humidity outside world: 30 to 50%
Winter rest: December-March at 5-12 degrees
Growth rate: 5/5
Grow to a number of workers: +- form large colonies of up to thousands of workers
Subfamily: Myrmicinae
Foundation: Claustral
Colony formation: monogyne (can have 1 queen per nest)
Care:
Food: Insects such as fruit flies, redrunners, crickets, mealworms, buffalo worms, and dubias. Sugars such as beetle jelly, Formica sunburst ant nectar, and honeydew.
Food needs:
From how many workers to a nest: 35+
Recommended nest type: ytong, wood, acrylic
Care:
The care itself is quite easy, they have a high food requirement so it is also important that enough food is offered (food tailored to the colony). In the wild they often live in dead wood so a dry nest is definitely recommended.
