Aphaenogaster subterranea
Temperature
22–26 °C
Humidity
50–70%
Colony size
500–3,000
Queen size
7–9 mm
Worker size
4–6 mm
Hibernation temp
10 °C
Diet
Care Guide
Aphaenogaster subterranea is a graceful European member of the genus, found from the Mediterranean basin north into the deciduous and mixed forests of central and southeastern Europe. The queen measures 7–9 mm, and workers range from 4 to 6 mm. Coloration is a warm reddish-brown that catches the light beautifully, with long legs and slender antennae characteristic of the entire genus. As the name implies, this species lives largely underground, nesting beneath stones, logs, and in deep soil chambers where temperature and humidity remain stable.
The species is a true generalist forager, gathering small invertebrate prey, scavenging organic matter, tending sugary plant secretions, and collecting elaiosome-bearing seeds. Like all Aphaenogaster, it plays a significant ecological role as a seed disperser in its native woodlands. Colonies remain modest in size — typically 500 to 3,000 workers at maturity — which makes them ideal for keepers who prefer detailed observation over sheer biomass.
Founding is semi-claustral, meaning the queen must forage during the establishment phase. She cannot simply be sealed in a test tube and left alone; instead she requires regular access to small prey items and a drop of sugar water from day one.
Care difficulty
A. subterranea is rated intermediate. The semi-claustral founding adds a small layer of complexity for newcomers, and the species requires a genuine winter rest. Beyond these considerations, the colony is hardy, tolerant of mild husbandry mistakes, and rewards careful observation.
Housing
A small starter setup with a moist nesting area and a drier outworld is the natural fit. Maintain temperatures between 22 and 26 °C during the active season, with humidity at 50–70 % in the nest. Provide small insects such as fruit flies and pinhead crickets two to three times per week, alongside sugar water or honey droplets and the occasional seed. From late autumn through early spring, hibernate the colony at around 10 °C for two to three months.
First days after purchase
Keep the colony in a calm, dim location. Within the first 24 hours, offer a freshly killed fruit fly and a tiny droplet of sugar water. Refresh water regularly without opening the test tube unnecessarily, and resist the urge to check too often — Aphaenogaster respond poorly to constant disturbance. Once the colony has grown to roughly 30 workers, transition to a small formicarium with a proper foraging arena.