Odontomachus monticola

This species of the Odontomachus genus is quite possibly the most popular because they are more readily available than other species and because there’s quite a bit of information available about them. These incredible ants simply draw you in because of the way they look. They have big, strong mandibles that they use to hunt prey with and they are even used to jump backwards. These ants are quite aggressive so you will get plenty of opportunities to see them in action.

These little creatures require a more experienced antkeeper. They have a powerful bite and an annoying sting so make sure they can’t escape. Also, they are known to be picky when it comes to food so you’ll have to experiment with various feeder insects and sugar sources. Regular humidifying of their nest is a must and so a heating device such as a heating mat or heating cable to maintain temperatures around 24 to 28 degrees celcius. They can do well in ytong, plaster and 3D printed nests, but they would certainly appreciate a little layer of soil (cocopeat for example) in their nest.

Size & colony type
Queen: aprox. 13mm
Workers: aprox. 10mm – 13mm
Soldiers: n/a
Colony type: monogyne
Colony size: about 200 – 300 workers per colony
Keeping difficulty: Moderate. Require higher temperatures and humidity

Habitat
Distribution: Southeast Asia
Habitat: often found in tropical rainforests
Natural nest: they often build their nests in pieces of dead wood
Suitable formicaria: Ytong-, plaster-, and 3D nests are all suitable for this species
Recommended humidity: 60% – 80%
Recommended temperature: 24°C – 28°C
Nutrition: a sugar source such as honey or sugar water 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
Claustral: no, you will need to feed regularly
Matingflight period: june – september
Egg to worker: 8 to 10 weeks depending on how they are being kept