Camponotus consobrinus

Description

Camponotus consobrinus – the Australian banded sugar ant, which is impressive after dark

Are you looking for a large, impressive Camponotus that really “comes alive” in the arena and has distinct soldiers? Camponotus consobrinus is the iconic Australian “banded sugar ant” – contrasting in colour, active mainly in the evening and at night, it looks great in a larger formicarium with space to patrol. No hibernation, stable development in warm conditions and a clear division of roles in the colony make it a great choice for a representative species to observe.

Detailed description of Camponotus consobrinus

In nature, Camponotus consobrinus inhabits various environments in Australia – from eucalyptus forests to the outskirts of urban areas. In captivity, it thrives best at 22–28 °C, with a humid nest (50–70%) and a drier, well-ventilated arena. Colonies grow steadily: they do not suddenly explode in number, which facilitates planned expansion.

These are ants that “like movement” – after dark, they create distinct pheromone trails, quickly recruit others to gather food, and beautifully display cast polymorphism. The tiny minors take care of the nest, the middles handle transport, and the soldiers(majors) with massive heads secure the exits and deal with larger protein bites. The species does not hibernate – you can observe its progress throughout the year.

Advantages of the species

• Spectacular polymorphism – distinct, massive soldiers create a “wow” effect.

• Contrasting colours – black head and abdomen, honey-red thorax and a light “stripe” at the base of the abdomen.

• Year-round activity – no hibernation = more observations and stable development.

• Night-time spectacle – dynamic patrols and rapid recruitment for food after dark.

• Tolerant and predictable – a good choice as your “first big” Camponotus.

Characteristics of Camponotus consobrinus

• Sizes: queen 17–20 mm; workers 6–15 mm; distinct soldier caste.

• Colouring: black head and abdomen, rusty-honey-coloured thorax, light ring at the base of the abdomen.

• Behaviour: feeds mainly in the evening and at night; clear pheromone trails; intensive grooming and trophallaxis.

• Defence: typical for Camponotus – posture with raised head, open mandibles, ability to disperse formic acid (without a sting).

• Conditions: 22–28 °C; nest 50–70% humidity; dry, well-ventilated arena with anti-escape barrier.

Feeding and service

• Carbohydrates: water with honey, carbohydrate gels, protein-sugar syrups – small portions, often (so as not to dirty the barrier).

• Protein: cockroaches, crickets, mealworm/woodworm larvae – 2–3 times a week when the colony is growing, less frequently for adult colonies.

• Water: constant access to a drinking bowl with cotton wool/mesh.

• Hygiene: remove protein residues within 24 hours; keep sugars away from the rim with a barrier.

For whom?

For beginners (with basic knowledge) and intermediate enthusiasts who want a colony with distinct soldiers, a strong visual effect and night-time activity. It is an excellent exhibition species – it impresses both enthusiasts and visitors who are seeing a formicarium for the first time.

If you dream of a large, impressive colony that puts on a show of organisation and cooperation every evening, Camponotus consobrinus is the choice for you. Add it to your basket, choose a sturdy barrier and a larger arena, and your formicarium will become the setting for a nightly spectacle that you will return to every day.