Camponotus lateralis
Temperature
22–28 °C
Humidity
50–70%
Colony size
500–3,000
Queen size
9–11 mm
Worker size
4–8 mm
Hibernation temp
12 °C
Diet
Care Guide
Camponotus lateralis is a charming and moderately sized carpenter ant species native to southern Europe and parts of Asia, easily recognized by its striking bicolored appearance — the head and gaster are deep black while the thorax and legs are a warm reddish-brown. This contrast makes them a visually appealing addition to any ant collection. Colonies are founded claustrally by a single queen, who remains sealed in a small chamber, using her own wing muscles and fat reserves to raise her first brood without needing to forage. Once the first workers emerge, the colony grows steadily, eventually reaching a comfortable size of 500 to 3,000 individuals. The queen measures between 9 and 11 mm, while workers range from 4 to 8 mm, exhibiting some size variation but no extreme polymorphism. These ants are active, curious foragers that form well-organized foraging trails, often exploring their surroundings with cautious determination.
In the wild, Camponotus lateralis forages both on the ground and in trees, feeding on insect prey, honeydew from aphids and scale insects, and floral nectar. In captivity, they thrive on a balanced diet of live or frozen insects such as fruit flies, crickets, or mealworms, complemented by sugar water or honeydew mimics. They also appreciate protein-rich offerings during brood development. A key aspect of their biology is the need for a winter diapause — a hibernation period at around 12°C for several months. This rest is essential for the queen’s longevity and the colony’s long-term health. Skipping hibernation can lead to weakened queens and reduced growth in subsequent seasons.
Care difficulty
Keeping Camponotus lateralis is best suited for intermediate ant keepers. While their founding is straightforward and they are not overly aggressive, they do require consistent humidity and temperature control, as well as a proper hibernation cycle. Their sensitivity to disturbance, especially during early colony stages, means that patience and a steady hand are key.
Housing
A formicarium with good ventilation and moderate moisture retention works well for this species. Maintain the nest area at 50–70% humidity, with a temperature gradient of 22–28°C during the active season. The outworld should be escape-proof and spacious enough for foraging. Camponotus lateralis appreciate a substrate that retains some moisture, such as sand-clay mix or plaster, but avoid waterlogging to prevent mold. During hibernation, move the colony to a cooler, dark location at around 12°C, reducing feeding but ensuring access to water.
First days after purchase
Upon receiving your Camponotus lateralis colony, place the setup in a quiet, dimly lit area and allow the ants to settle for at least 48 hours. Minimize vibrations and avoid opening the nest unnecessarily. Provide a small drop of sugar water and a few tiny insects to assess their feeding response. Observe from a distance — these ants will soon begin exploring and tidying their new home. With a calm start, your colony will quickly adapt and reward you with fascinating daily activity.