Camponotus turkestanus

This species of the Camponotus genus is quite possibly one of the most wanted species of ants in the antkeeping hobby. Why? Well, look at them! They are absolutely gorgeous. Queens of this species often have beautiful yellow/golden-like gasters and the workers are usually so light that they are almost translucent. It doesn’t end there either, as they are relatively easy to keep, they are very active and they can even be kept at room temperature, although using a heating device such as a heating mat or heating cable is highly recommended.

Size & colony type
Queen: aprox. 12mm
Workers: aprox. 6mm – 12mm
Soldiers: n/a
Colony type: monogyne
Colony size: about 300 – 400 workers per colony
Keeping difficulty: Fairly easy.

Habitat
Distribution: Asia
Habitat: often found in sandy, desert-like area’s
Natural nest: they often build their nests underground and under stones
Suitable formicaria: Ytong-, plaster- and 3D nests are all suitable for this species
Recommended humidity: 50% – 70%
Recommended temperature: 22°C – 28°C
Nutrition: a sugar source such as honey or sugarwater and a protein source such as prey insects like crickets or fruitflies. Insect jelly is also a suitable feeder since it contains both sugar and protein and varius other beneficial components

Misc
Hibernation: no, but is recommended to lower the temperature from november till march
Claustral: yes, no need to feed until the first workers arrive
Matingflight period: june
Egg to worker: 8 to 10 weeks depending on how they are being kept