Cataglyphis velox

Description

Species description of Cataglyphis velox

Cataglyphis velox is a very interesting species of ant belonging to the genus Cataglyphis – the famous ants adapted to life in dry, warm and very sunny environments. In the wild, they are found on the Iberian Peninsula, mainly in Spain and Portugal, where they thrive in places where many other ants limit their activity due to the high temperatures.

What immediately catches the eye with this species is the pace at which they move. Cataglyphis velox are fast, alert and very keen to patrol the arena. This is not a species that spends its days hidden away in its nest. There really is plenty to observe here, especially once the colony begins to grow in strength.

Worker ants have a slender build, long legs and a very distinctive way of moving. Their colouring usually combines reddish-brown shades on the thorax with a darker abdomen, making them look stunning against light-coloured sand or natural ground.

The challenges of breeding Cataglyphis velox

Keeping Cataglyphis velox is not particularly difficult, but it does require an understanding of one important thing: these ants are thermophilic and very fast. If you provide them with the right temperature, a drier habitat, access to water and regular feeding, they will reward you with their lively behaviour.

They can be a very interesting choice for a novice keeper, provided that the enclosure is properly secured. With this species, an escape barrier is not an optional extra, but an absolute necessity. These ants are quick to capitalise on any mistake made by the keeper.

Cataglyphis velox Breeding Guide

Cataglyphis velox thrive best in a formicarium with a clear division between the nesting area and a dry, spacious arena. The arena does not need to be elaborate, but it should provide the ants with space to run about and forage. Light-coloured sand, gravel or a mineral mix are well suited to their natural way of life.

The temperature in the formicarium should be around 25–30°C. It is a good idea to heat only part of the nest or arena, so that the ants can choose a spot that suits them. You should not overheat the entire formicarium, as even thermophilic species need to be able to retreat to a cooler area.

Humidity should be moderate. The nest must not be completely dry, particularly when there is brood in the colony, but the arena should remain fairly dry. Constant access to water is essential.

Feeding Cataglyphis velox

Cataglyphis velox should be fed primarily on feed insects and a source of sugars. Small mealworms, cockroaches, flies, crickets or other insects, chosen to suit the size of the colony, work well. Protein-rich food is particularly important when the queen is laying eggs intensively and larvae appear in the nest.

Ant nectar, honey water or sugar water can be provided as a source of sugar. It is best to provide small portions and remove any leftovers regularly, as the food spoils more quickly at higher temperatures.

The first few days after buying a Cataglyphis velox

Once you’ve received the colony, it’s best to leave the ants in peace for a few days. Place the test tube or small nest in a quiet spot, and provide water, a little sugar food and a small insect for them to feed on. Don’t keep checking on the queen, as stress at the start can significantly slow down the colony’s development.

It is not worth moving them to a larger formicarium too early. A small colony thrives best in a test tube or a small nest with access to an arena. Only once there are more workers should you consider a larger module.

Why choose Cataglyphis velox?

• Very active ants that are a joy to watch in the arena.
• An interesting, fast way to get around.
• A lovely, contrasting colour scheme.
• A thermophilic species, ideal for those looking for ants from southern Europe.
• It doesn’t require a complicated diet.
• It looks great in a naturally decorated setting with a light-coloured background.

Cataglyphis velox is a species for those who enjoy dynamic ants. If you want a colony that will actively explore the arena, react quickly to food and provide plenty of entertainment, this species will be an excellent choice.