Ant Colony Myrmica Rubra (2 Queens and 30+ Workers) - Red Ant

Myrmica rubra Ant Colony (2 Queens and 30+ Workers)

The Myrmica rubra, better known as the Common Red Ant, is an absolute classic and one of the most well-known native ant species. These ants are known for their striking red color, quick reactions, and fierce character. This established colony is extra special because it is polygynous: it contains no less than 2 egg-laying queens (gynes) with a nice group of 30 or more (30+) workers and the corresponding brood.

Multiple queens and rapid development

Because Myrmica rubra colonies accept multiple queens in one nest, egg production and colony growth can be incredibly fast. In Myrmica rubra, the queens are only slightly larger than the workers, which creates a beautiful, harmonious nest appearance. Please note that this species has a strong seasonal rhythm: in autumn and winter, brood production is somewhat lower, only to burst out at full capacity again in the warm spring!

Important: Moisture balance and care

Myrmica rubra is a fantastic and active species to keep, but it requires more attention than, for example, a Lasius niger or Messor barbarus. Dehydration is the biggest danger for these ants; they need a permanently moist nest area and an easily accessible outworld (arena) where fresh water and sugar/proteins are always available. Additionally, the red ant has a small stinger that it can use to sting when threatened (comparable to a mild nettle sting) — which adds extra excitement and dynamism to the hobby for the serious keeper!

Complete nutritional diet available for immediate order

Make caring for your colony easy from day one with our specially formulated feeding sets. The complete diet consists of a combination of sugar water, honeydew, and small insects (such as fruit flies) for the necessary proteins. Choose our Deluxe feeding set if you want to spoil the ants with extra feeding jelly, a dosing pipette, and a handy feeding tray!

Suitable habitats

Because these ants love moisture and digging, a **sand nest** is the absolute favorite for Myrmica rubra. Plaster nests are also suitable, provided the nest can be kept sufficiently moist. Connect the test tube directly to an outworld (arena) to allow them to forage optimally.

Please note: This ant colony is intended for sand and plaster nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, shipping, and warranty conditions

You will receive the colony in a specially designed test tube with a water supply behind a cotton ball. Because an established colony of 30+ workers quickly needs space and food, we recommend connecting them to their new habitat within a few days of receipt.

Adjusted warranty conditions: We guarantee that the queens and workers will arrive alive and healthy. If, unfortunately, something is wrong upon receipt, please report it within 24 hours of receipt with clear photos to our customer service. Because the subsequent lifespan of this specific species is highly dependent on consistent, moist care by the keeper, the warranty expires after this initial receipt period. Are you unsure about the correct care? Feel free to contact us in advance for advice!

Myrmica rubra Specifications:

• Scientific name: Myrmica rubra
• Dutch name: Common Red Ant
• Difficulty: 2 (Moderate – requires a well-moisturized nest)
• Queen size: 5 - 6 mm
• Worker size: 4 - 5 mm
• Colony form: Polygynous (2 queens in this colony)
• Main food: Sugar/honey water and small insects (such as fruit flies)
• Recommended nest type: Sand (preferred) or Plaster (including moist arena)
• Hibernation: November to February (keep slightly cooler around 10°C - 15°C)

Ready for a fierce, active, and fascinating native ant species? Order your Myrmica rubra colony (2 queens and 30+ workers) today at Mierenboerderij!