Manica rubida

This European ant species is quite well-known for it’s potent sting. They look very pretty with their deep reddish colours and beautiful dark patterns on their gasters, but don’t let their appearence fool you. These little creatures pack a powerful sting that they will gladly use to take out their prey. These ants are actually the biggest stinging ants in all of Europe and given the chance they will definitely hurt you.

Size & colony type
Queen: aprox. 9,5mm – 13mm
Workers: aprox. 6mm – 9mm
Soldiers: n/a
Colony type: polygyne
Colony size: about 2,000 – 3,000 workers per colony
Keeping difficulty: Fairly easy.

Habitat
Distribution: Southern Europe
Habitat: often found along riverbeds
Natural nest: they often build their nests underground and under rocks
Suitable formicaria: Ytong-, plaster-, 3D- and acrylicnests are all suitable for this species
Recommended humidity: 50% – 70%
Recommended temperature: 21°C – 24°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: yes, from the end of october till the end of march
Claustral: no, you will need to feed regularly
Matingflight period: june – july
Egg to worker: 7 to 9 weeks depending on how they are being kept