Technical Sheet for Strumigenys sp.
Scientific Name: Strumigenys sp.
Family: Formicidae
Genus: Strumigenys
Size: 0.8 mm to 3 mm in length.
Distribution:
Strumigenys ants are found worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.
Description:
Strumigenys ants are known for their tiny size and long, specialized mandibles that snap shut quickly to capture prey. Their bodies are often covered with small hairs or bristles, giving them a fuzzy appearance. They vary in color, ranging from shades of brown, yellow, and sometimes gray.
Habitat:
These ants live in leaf litter, decaying logs, and moist, shaded areas. They are commonly found in the forest floor of jungles and areas with high humidity.
Behavior:
They are predators, primarily hunting small arthropods such as springtails. They ambush their prey using their fast, precision jaws. Colonies are small and relatively inconspicuous, with less visible activity compared to other ant species.
Care in Captivity:
- Humidity: Keep the formicarium at high humidity levels (60-80%).
- Temperature: Ideal temperature range is between 22°C and 26°C. Avoid extreme temperatures.
- Diet: Feed them small insects like springtails or micro-crickets, mimicking their natural diet.
- Formicarium: A small formicarium with easy-to-access chambers and a suitable foraging area is recommended.
Difficulty of Keeping:
Moderate. They require constant humidity and a specific diet, making them a bit challenging for beginners.
Curiosities:
- They possess “trap-jaw” mandibles that snap shut at high speeds to capture prey.
- Due to their small size and discreet behavior, they are often overlooked in their natural habitat.
