Myrmica Scabrinodis Questions

[djant]

Hi there,
There are a few colonies of this species on ebay for good prices, as I was considering them as my second colony I was wondering how they differed from M. Rubra and Ruginodis, as I've kept both of these species before. I've read the species profile and have had a read around but I was wondering how humid they like it? Also, as they can tolerate colder temperatures does that mean they like it cooler than say, the Rubras, or will warm temperatures (my room is around 25 degrees at the moment) result in faster developing brood? 

Thanks! 

[Wood~Ant]

Scabs are hardier than M. rubra as they are found in the Scottish Highlands, so they will tolerate cold much better than their more southern based cousins. All Myrmica love their nests on the damp side, and as both Rugs and Scabs are found far north in the UK and do occasionally nest in woodlands and boggy ground, they don't mind it humid, whereas rubra do like to nest in slightly drier areas and are more numerous in southern England and Wales than the other 2. 

[djant]

That's good to know and should mean it will be safe to hibernate them outside in an unheated shed here in Sussex. I'm slightly paranoid about this as I lost my Lemani and Rubra colonies during hibernation one winter with heavy snow!

On an unrelated question I've just received a small colony of Messor Barbarus (4 workers with one more due anytime) and I was wondering a) how many workers should I wait for before moving them into the ytong nest I have made for them - it's small at 10x15cm but I don't want them to feel threatened and b) when I move them in should I leave the test tube in the foraging area covered or not? I know it might encourage them to move but if they don't relocate for some time I don't want the queen stressed by the light. 

[Wood~Ant]

Even though you live in Sussex, as do I, any ants you place in a shed over the winter are better having some form of insulation around their set up, as they cannot dig down to avoid the frost. An old towel or newspaper, and placing the nest in a cardboard box will help keep them alive and safe during very cold spells. 

As for when to move your new Messor barb colony, this is really your decision. Even if you place the test tube where they can access the Ytong nest, the ants themselves will choose when they want to move home. 

[antique]

keep your messor queen away from direct sunlight and she should be fine. best to keep them a bit shaded.