Pheidole aphrasta

These small ants can be found in the southern parts of China. They are quite uncommon and that is why there is still limited information available about them. We do know that they, much like most species of the Pheidole genus, are aggressive hunters and that they will eagerly use their numbers to overpower both prey and predator. Keeping these little wonders of nature will require a heating device such as a heating mat or heating cable since they are an exotic species. They are quite versatile when it comes to humidity, but they are known to enjoy higher levels of humidity. Feeding them is perhaps the easiest part in keeping these ants because they readily accept pretty much everything.

Size & colony type
Queen: aprox. 7,5mm
Workers: aprox. 2mm – 3,5mm
Soldiers: aprox. 3,5mm – 5mm
Colony type: polygyne
Colony size: about 2,000 – 3,000 workers per colony
Keeping difficulty: Moderate. They are relatively easy to keep, but require slightly higher temperatures

Habitat
Distribution: South China
Habitat: often found in woodland like forests and open lands with a lot of greenery
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% – 80%
Recommended temperature: 24°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: yes, from the end of november till the end of march
Claustral: yes, no need to feed until the first workers arrive
Matingflight period: on warm, humid days around july – september
Egg to worker: 6 to 8 weeks depending on how they are being kept