Myrmica lobicornis
Temperature
18–24 °C
Humidity
55–75%
Colony size
500–3,000
Queen size
5.5–7 mm
Worker size
4–5.5 mm
Hibernation temp
5 °C
Diet
Care Guide
Myrmica lobicornis is a charming and lively species that brings a touch of wild European woodland into your formicarium. These ants are known for their slender build, reddish-brown coloration, and the distinctive curved antennae that give them their name. While not as polymorphic as some seed harvesters, they show subtle size variation between queen and workers, with queens reaching up to 7 mm and workers typically measuring 4 to 5.5 mm. One of their most fascinating traits is their semi-claustral founding strategy — the queen must leave the nest to forage during the early stages, which makes her more vulnerable but also more resilient once the colony is established. Colonies can grow to a respectable size of several thousand workers, creating a bustling and active society.
A key aspect of keeping Myrmica lobicornis is understanding their dietary needs. These ants are true generalists with a strong preference for protein. They eagerly hunt small insects such as fruit flies, crickets, or mealworms, and will appreciate regular offerings of sugar water or honey water for energy. Their metabolism is high, so a steady supply of both protein and carbohydrates is essential for brood development and colony growth. Unlike seed-eating species, they do not store dry food, so feeding schedules need to be consistent. Another critical requirement is hibernation — Myrmica lobicornis must undergo a winter diapause at around 5°C for several months to maintain their natural biological rhythm. Skipping hibernation can lead to a weak and short-lived colony.
Care difficulty
Keeping Myrmica lobicornis is best suited for intermediate keepers. The semi-claustral founding phase demands patience and careful observation, as the queen requires regular feeding without being disturbed. Once the first workers emerge, the colony becomes more robust, but their sensitivity to drying out and need for a defined hibernation period add layers of responsibility. Those with some previous ant-keeping experience will find them rewarding and full of character.
Housing
For housing, a formicarium with stable humidity levels between 55 and 75% is ideal. These ants thrive in cooler temperatures, ideally between 18 and 24°C, and do not require additional heating unless the room is particularly cold. The nest should include a moist area for brood and a drier zone for the ants to retreat to. A test tube setup works well for founding, and a small arena with a water source and feeding station is recommended for the growing colony. Because Myrmica are known to sting when alarmed, handle the setup with care to avoid unnecessary stress.
First days after purchase
Upon receiving your Myrmica lobicornis colony, place them in a quiet, dimly lit spot and allow at least a day for them to settle. Check that the queen has access to water and a small protein source. If you have a semi-claustral queen, place a tiny drop of honey water and a crushed insect near her hiding place. Avoid bright lights and vibrations, as these ants are particularly sensitive during the founding stage. Monitor the brood regularly but without opening the nest; a healthy queen will soon produce the first workers, and your colony will be off to a wonderful start.