Formica cinerea

Description

Formica cinerea is a very interesting European ant species, which is ideal for a novice keeper looking for an active and dynamic colony. These are not ants that sit in their nest all day and only come out at feeding time. Formica cinerea are capable of exploring the arena intensively, hunting efficiently and reacting quickly to everything happening in their surroundings.

This species is particularly associated with sandy, sunny and fairly dry habitats. In the wild, they can be found, amongst other places, in sandy meadows, on the edges of forests, on sand dunes, in gravel pits and near rivers. In captivity, it is best to provide them with precisely this kind of environment: a sandy enclosure, a moderately damp nest and good ventilation will work a treat here.

Description of the species Formica cinerea

Formica cinerea, sometimes known as the grey ant, is characterised by its grey-black colouring and a subtle silvery sheen, which is particularly visible in brighter light. The workers are quite slender, fast and very agile. The queen usually measures around 11–12 mm, whilst the workers are typically around 5–8 mm.

In the wild, Formica cinerea builds nests in the soil, particularly in dry and sandy habitats. Colonies can be very active, and larger colonies are highly organised when foraging. It is a predatory species that readily accepts insect prey, but like most ants, it also requires a source of sugars, such as water mixed with honey or nectar.

It’s worth knowing that Formica cinerea can be more assertive than the calmer starter species. When stressed, they may use formic acid, so it’s best not to overdo it with constantly checking on the nest. Give them some peace and quiet, water, something sweet and an insect, and they’ll reward you with some really entertaining behaviour.

The difficulty level of keeping Formica cinerea

Keeping Formica cinerea is relatively straightforward, but it is not a species that can be kept entirely ‘on the sofa’. The ants are fast, active and can become agitated if subjected to frequent jolts or excessive interference from the keeper. They are still a good choice for a beginner, particularly if you are looking for a European species that is hardy and interesting to observe.

The most important aspects of keeping Formica cinerea are ensuring they have constant access to water, regular feeding and hibernation. As this is a European species, the winter break is a vital part of the colony’s natural cycle. It is best to carry this out at a temperature of around 4–8 degrees for 2–3 months.

A Guide to Breeding Formica cinerea

Formica cinerea thrives best in a formicarium with a moderately moist nest and a drier, sandy arena. There’s no need to go to great lengths with highly specialised equipment, but good ventilation and stable conditions are important here. The nest should not be waterlogged or constantly damp, as this species is much more closely associated with drier, well-drained terrain than with a muddy environment.

Water with honey, ant nectar and feed insects such as fruit flies, mealworms, cockroaches or crickets are all suitable for feeding. Give small colonies modest portions so that leftovers do not remain in the enclosure. Larger colonies eat heartily and can quickly demonstrate that the protein was a good idea.

Room temperature is sufficient, but the colony may thrive better in a warmer range of around 22–26 degrees. You can heat part of the nest or the arena, but always leave the ants the option of a cooler spot. Do not heat the entire formicarium at once, as the ants must be able to decide for themselves where they are most comfortable.

The first few days after buying Formica cinerea

Once you have received your Formica cinerea colony, leave the ants in peace for a few days. This is really important, as this species can react nervously to vibrations, light and constant disturbance. It is best to place the test tube in a quiet spot, connect it to a small enclosure and let the ants settle in on their own.

To start with, all you need is access to water, a little sweet food and a small insect to feed them. Don’t move the colony to a large formicarium too soon. A small colony thrives best in a test tube or a small nest, where it is cramped, safe and where it is easy to maintain the right level of humidity.

If you’re looking for ants that are active, fast and interesting to watch, Formica cinerea is an excellent choice. It’s a species that displays a wide range of behaviours even in a small colony, whilst not requiring any exotic conditions. You just need to remember to overwinter them and not to peek into their nest every five minutes. They know what they’re doing. You just need to provide the right conditions and watch.