Lunk's Formicariums

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I made some small simple OutWorld humidifiers from mini-terracotta-pots. I cut down a piece of 'Saugwunder' sponge to a little larger but about the shape of the inside of the tiny pot and then stuffed it in really well until the sponge firmly pushes against the hole at the top hole (bottom of the pot).

 

 Have you ever been stung by an ant and experienced excruciating pain that seemed to last forever? Well, researchers at the University of Queensland have made an amazing discovery about some of the world's most painful ant stings. They found that these stings target our nerves, similar to how snake and scorpion venom work. This groundbreaking research, recently published in the scientific journal Nature Communications, provides new insights into understanding pain and developing innovative ways to treat it. Understanding the Study: Led by Dr. Sam Robinson and his colleagues at UQ's Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the research focused on two ant species: the Australian green ant and the South American bullet ant. These ants are known for their stings that cause prolonged pain, unlike the brief discomfort of a bee sting. How Ant Venoms Affect Nerves: Through their study, the researchers discovered that ant venoms specifically target the nerve cells responsible for transmittin...

Understanding Nuptial Flight 'Nuptial flight', also known as the "swarming" or "flying ant day," is an annual event when winged reproductive ants, both males and females, leave their colonies in large numbers to mate and establish new colonies. This behavior is crucial for the survival and expansion of ant populations. The Life of Lasius Niger Lasius niger is one of the most widespread ant species in Europe, known for its characteristic black coloration. These ants build their nests in soil, often under stones or in rotting wood, and are commonly found in gardens, parks, and forests. Lasius niger colonies typically consist of a queen, worker ants, and a few males. The Nuptial Flight Process During nuptial flight, Lasius niger ants engage in a synchronized and spectacular event. It usually occurs during warm, humid summer days. Before the flight, young winged ants, called alates, develop within the colony. When the conditions are favorable, these alates under...

 Just now an hour ago many Queens landed all over the backyard... I caught 4 in Test-tube setups.

  In the intricate world of ants, one can observe a remarkable phenomenon known as stigmergy, a fascinating form of indirect communication and organization. Stigmergy plays a crucial role in shaping the behavior and collective intelligence of ant colonies. This phenomenon, derived from the Greek words "stigma" (sign) and "ergon" (work), offers valuable insights into the decentralized and self-organizing nature of ant societies. Let's delve into the captivating world of stigmergy and explore how ants utilize this mechanism to accomplish complex tasks. At first glance, an ant colony may appear as a chaotic and bustling environment, with numerous individuals scurrying about. However, upon closer observation, one can discern a pattern emerging from this apparent chaos. Ants exhibit an innate ability to work collaboratively towards common goals, such as constructing intricate nests or foraging for food. Stigmergy provides the framework through which this cooperative ...