How difficult is Paratrechina longicornis to keep?

Paratrechina longicornis is rated intermediate difficulty. The queen founds the colony claustrally — no feeding required during founding.

Does Paratrechina longicornis need hibernation?

Paratrechina longicornis does not require hibernation and can be kept active year-round.

What temperature does Paratrechina longicornis need?

Paratrechina longicornis thrives at 24–28 °C with 60–80% humidity.

When does Paratrechina longicornis have its nuptial flight?

Nuptial flight data for Paratrechina longicornis is not yet available for your region.

Paratrechina longicornis

Intermediateclaustral

Temperature

24–28 °C

Humidity

60–80%

Colony size

2,000–20,000

Queen size

4–5 mm

Worker size

2.5–3 mm

Diet

insectssugar waterhoneydew

Care Guide

Paratrechina longicornis, commonly known as the longhorn crazy ant, is a species that captivates with its remarkable speed and seemingly chaotic, yet highly efficient, foraging trails. Workers are uniformly monomorphic, with all individuals measuring between 2.5 and 3 mm, while the queen reaches a slightly larger size of 4 to 5 mm. The name “crazy ant” comes from their erratic, frantic movements when disturbed – a behavior that makes observing them both entertaining and fascinating. Colonies can grow from several thousand to as many as twenty thousand workers, and the queen founds the colony claustrally, meaning she seals herself in a chamber and raises the first generation of workers without leaving to forage.

A distinguishing trait of Paratrechina longicornis is their remarkable adaptability and resilience. These ants are highly opportunistic and will consume a wide variety of foods. Their diet consists of insects for protein, as well as sugar water and honeydew for carbohydrates – a typical menu for many myrmicine ants. However, their ability to thrive on almost any available sweet or protein source contributes to their reputation as a hardy and fast-growing species. They are also known for their trail‑laying behavior, forming dense, visible columns that can traverse long distances in search of food.

Care difficulty

Keeping Paratrechina longicornis is best suited for intermediate ant keepers. While they are not extremely demanding, their rapid population growth and high activity levels require a bit more attention than beginner species. They are tolerant of a wide range of conditions but benefit from consistent care. Because they do not require hibernation, they can be kept active year‑round, providing continuous enjoyment.

Housing

A formicarium with a spacious foraging area is essential, as these ants are constantly on the move and will quickly explore every corner. They prefer a warm environment with temperatures maintained between 24 and 28 °C, and humidity levels of 60 to 80 percent. The nest area should be kept moderately moist, but avoid waterlogging. A well‑sealed setup is crucial – Paratrechina longicornis are notorious escape artists, capable of squeezing through the tiniest gaps. Provide a steady supply of sugar water (diluted honey or commercial ant nectar) and offer protein sources such as fruit flies or small crickets regularly.

First days after purchase

Upon receiving your colony, transfer them into their new home in a quiet, dimly lit location. Allow the ants several days to acclimate without disturbance. Ensure that the nest area is properly hydrated and that a small amount of sugar water and a protein source – perhaps a killed insect – are available near the entrance. Minimize vibrations and bright lights to reduce stress. After a few days, you should see the ants beginning to explore and forage confidently, a clear sign they have accepted their new environment.