Crematogaster auberti

Description

Crematogaster auberti – active acrobatic ants

Crematogaster auberti is an interesting species of ant with a distinctive, heart-shaped abdomen. When they feel threatened, they raise their abdomen above their body, which gives them a very distinctive appearance and makes observing the colony particularly fascinating. They are small but active ants, which respond well to protein-rich food and eagerly explore their enclosure.

This species originates from the warmer regions of Southern Europe and North Africa. In the wild, it is often found in drier habitats, including under stones, in the soil and in places that heat up well during the day. In captivity, it is best suited to those who wish to observe active ants, but who ensure that the enclosure is securely protected.

Description of the species Crematogaster auberti

Crematogaster auberti are small ants, but very interesting in terms of their behaviour. The queen usually reaches a length of around 7–9 mm, whilst the workers measure around 3–4 mm. The colonies do not take up much space to begin with, but with a good food supply they can grow rapidly and form large, active colonies.

The colouration of this species ranges from dark brown to almost black. Its most distinctive feature, however, is the shape of its abdomen, which resembles a heart or a drop. It is this abdomen that the ants raise when they are stressed, defending themselves or excited, which is why Crematogaster auberti are often referred to as ‘acrobatic ants’.

Breeding requirements for Crematogaster auberti

Crematogaster auberti do not have particularly complex requirements, but it is worth providing them with a dry, well-ventilated nest and constant access to water. The most important thing is to secure the enclosure properly, as the workers are excellent climbers.

• Temperature: The optimum rearing temperature is around 20–26°C. In warmer conditions, the colony may develop more quickly, but it is always a good idea to ensure the ants have the option of a cooler area.
• Humidity: This species prefers rather drier conditions. Low to moderate humidity in the nesting area is sufficient, along with constant access to a water bowl.
• Food: Their diet should consist of sugary foods and protein. Water with honey, ant nectar, fruit flies, small cockroaches, crickets and mealworms are all suitable.
• Housing: Dry, well-ventilated formicariums work best, such as 3D, Ytong, cork or modular kits. For larger colonies, it is worth choosing a formicarium that can be gradually expanded.
• Hibernation: Diapause at a lower temperature, around 12–16°C, is recommended, although it is not essential. This helps to replicate the species’ natural life cycle.

The benefits of breeding Crematogaster auberti

• An interesting appearance: its heart-shaped abdomen and the way it holds it aloft make this species stand out from many other ants.
• High activity levels: The worker ants are very active, keen to explore the arena and quick to respond to food provided.
• A simple diet: Crematogaster auberti are not fussy and will readily accept both sugary foods and live insects.
• Rapid growth: At the right temperature and with a regular supply of protein, the colony can grow very rapidly.
• Interesting defensive behaviours: the raising of the abdomen and the colony’s dynamic response to stimuli make these ants very interesting to observe.

Breeding instructions and advice

To begin with, it is best to keep the colony in a test tube, ensuring it has peace and quiet, water and small portions of food. Young colonies do not need much space, so it is best to wait until there are noticeably more workers before moving them to a formicarium.

When feeding, it is worth bearing in mind that the colony’s development depends heavily on protein. Live food should be provided regularly, particularly when larvae appear in the nest. Sugary foods, such as honey water or nectar, should be made available frequently, but in small portions, so as not to dirty the arena.

Crematogaster auberti is a species that is very adept at climbing, so the enclosure should be fitted with an escape-proof barrier. It is also advisable to ensure the nest is well ventilated, as these ants can produce large amounts of pheromones when under stress.

If you’re looking for an active, small and striking species, Crematogaster auberti would be a very interesting choice. These ants do not require complex conditions, yet they offer plenty of fascinating observations right from the earliest stages of colony development.