Ant nest "Alpha" 5x10
This modular ant nest is the result of intensive practical experience in ant keeping. It has been specially developed to meet the needs of a wide range of ant species and is suitable for a colony that has outgrown its test tube.
The nest is made of PLA, which is produced using a 3D printing process. The base is a mixture of plaster and mortar - harder than pure plaster to prevent digging by some species, but still able to absorb and release moisture. Moisture is regulated by a PVA sponge, which sits in the nest behind a stainless steel mesh. The sponge changes color to indicate whether water needs to be refilled (dark blue = moist, light blue = dry). There is a small opening in the acrylic glass lid for refilling, which is accessible from above. The lid covers this opening to minimize evaporation. The nest comes with a matching lid that completely covers the acrylic glass pane, providing your ants with darkness and security.
The nest is equipped with two nest connectors based on a specially developed plug-in system. The connectors are inserted from above using a slot system and secured with two screws each. This system ensures a firm connection, minimizes the risk of accidental disconnection and allows flexible and modular expansion. A hose connection for 10 mm ID tube and a plug as well as the necessary screws and an Allen key are included. Additional connectors can be purchased separately.
All screw connections, both on the nest connections and on the acrylic glass cover, are fitted with melt-in nuts. These increase stability and durability. The screws do not grip directly into the plastic and hold securely even with frequent use.
Note: All products are carefully handcrafted. Therefore, there may be slight variations in color, shape or dimensions, but these do not affect the function. These deviations are part of the manufacturing process and do not represent a defect
Nest inserts
- Formica: Spacious chambers, simple passages - suitable for medium-sized species
- Lasius: Narrower passages and smaller chambers - suitable for small species
- Manica: Large chambers, wide passages - for larger species
- Messor Dry: Dry chambers without moisture supply - especially for granivorous species to prevent germination and mold on the grains.
- Messor Wet: Large and open chambers - suitable for medium-sized and large species
- Myrmica: Large, open chambers and medium-sized galleries - for medium-sized species
- Ponerine: Large and open chambers - for larger species
- Solenopsis: Very fine, narrow gallery systems and small chambers - for small species
Important note:
The nest insert designations (Formica, Lasius, Manica, etc.) serve only as names. They are based on reference material and typical nest structures of the named genera, but do not imply exclusive suitability for these species. Not every species will fit into every design - the size and structure of the chambers and passages may be unsuitable for certain ant species. Please inform yourself about the specific requirements of your ants before purchasing.
Product details
- Dimensions: 10,5 cm x 6,6 cm x 3,3 cm (length x width x height)
- Materials: PLA (3D print), plaster-mortar mixture (base), acrylic glass (nest cover), PVA sponge, stainless steel (mesh), brass ( melt-in nuts)
- Moisture system: PVA sponge, refill opening in acrylic glass lid, stainless steel mesh cover
- Connections: Slot system with 10 mm opening, connectors are secured with screws.
- Scope of delivery: 1 nest with lid, 1 hose connection 10 mm ID, 3 plugs for unused entrances, 2 screws per connection, 1 Allen key, instructions
- Care instructions: Not dishwasher-safe. Regular humidity checks recommended.
Manufacturer
Seba’s Antorium
Beethovenstr. 15
09130 Chemnitz
Saxony, Germany