Messor structor

Description

Messor structor – harvester ants ideal for breeding

Messor structor is one of the most popular species of harvester ants, especially recommended for beginner breeders and those looking for an interesting species to observe. Their calm temperament, ease of breeding and fascinating habits make them an excellent choice for both amateurs and more experienced breeders. These ants are natural seed collectors, allowing you to observe their unique behaviour as they gather supplies.

Characteristics of the Messor structor species

Messor structor originates from regions with warm climates, where their diet consists mainly of seeds, which they collect and store in their nests. This species tends to form larger colonies that can survive in various climatic conditions, making them more resilient and flexible than many other ants.

• Queen: Reaches a size of 12 to 14 mm, is significantly larger than the workers and is responsible for laying eggs and developing the colony.
• Workers: Depending on their caste, their sizes range from 3 to 9 millimetres, which creates an interesting contrast within the colony. The large polymorphism of workers, which are divided into smaller and larger ones, are responsible for various tasks – from collecting seeds to defending the colony.
• Colour: Workers are usually dark black, which makes it easier to observe their activity in the formicarium.
• Habits: Collecting seeds, which they grind and process into “ant bread”, is one of the most characteristic behaviours of this species.

Breeding requirements for Messor structor

One of the greatest advantages of Messor structor is that these ants do not have excessive requirements in terms of breeding conditions.

• Temperature: The optimum temperature is 24–28°C, but these ants can also withstand higher temperatures, provided that adequate humidity is maintained.
• Humidity: Seeds are their primary food source, so humidity does not need to be high, but it is worth maintaining a humid environment in the nesting area so that the colony has access to suitable conditions for development. In formicaria that are drier, an adequate amount of water should be provided in drinking bowls.
• Formicarium: A 3D formicarium, acrylic or with an earth nest where ants can store seeds, will work best. They can also be bred in formicaria made of cork, which imitates their natural environment.
• Feeding: Seeds are the main component of their diet. You can feed them seeds such as sesame, millet, or amaranth. It is also worth providing them with protein in the form of feed insects such as mealworms or cockroaches.

Advantages of breeding Messor structor

1. 1. Ease of breeding: These ants are easy to keep and do not require any special breeding conditions.

1. An interesting diet: Collecting and storing seeds allows us to observe unique behaviours, such as the process of creating “ant bread”.
2. Hardiness: This variety copes well with a variety of conditions, making it resistant to mistakes made by novice growers.
3. The colony grows rapidly: Thanks to its ability to form large colonies, Messor structor is the ideal choice for those who want to observe the growth of a colony in a short period of time.

Breeding instructions and advice

1. Starting breeding: If you are starting with a single queen in a test tube, it is worth giving her time to develop, ensuring humidity and peace and quiet.
2. When to transfer ants to a formicarium: The best time to transfer ants to a formicarium is when there are several to several dozen workers.
3. Seeds and protein: These ants require a varied diet – seeds and occasionally insects. Protein supports colony development, especially that of young larvae.
4. Hibernation: In their natural environment, Messor structor may enter a state of stagnation during winter. When breeding them, it is advisable to provide slightly lower temperatures (15–18°C) during the winter period, which simulates natural conditions.

Messor structor is a unique species that allows for fascinating observation of their natural behaviour. Collecting seeds, gathering supplies and creating “ant bread” are just some of the many attractions that await anyone who decides to breed this species. Thanks to their ease of breeding and unique habits, they are the perfect choice for novice breeders and those who want to develop their passion for ants. Order your kit now and start your fascinating journey into the world of ant breeding with Messor structor!