These are some of the best quality colonies in Europe. They are strong, super-healthy and full of brood. Dont miss out on some Ant Antics quality. pet andts,done right.
Introducing the Harpegnathos Venator, or as we like to call them, Primitive Asian Jumping Ants – the ultimate challenge for expert ant keepers! Ready to put your skills to the test and experience the thrill of hunting, strategy, and amazing behaviors? These ants will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Why Harpegnathos Venator is the Ultimate Ant for Advanced Enthusiasts:
Jumping Precision: These ants have a powerful leap, using their keen vision to track and pounce on prey with amazing accuracy. They can jump up to 10 cm – so make sure your setup has a lid! And, not only can they jump, but they also have the unique ability to run backwards when needed.
The Living Larder: Ever heard of a "living larder"? Venator ants paralyze their prey, then take it back to the nest where it stays alive for the colony's larvae to feast on. Talk about efficient! They only consume the hemolymph (the insect's blood) and don’t need sugars to thrive, making them a fascinating, primitive species to care for.
A Queen AND Workers Who Lay Eggs: This species features Gamergates—female workers capable of laying eggs too! While they’re not as prolific as the queen, these egg-laying workers are a neat bonus in the colony's social structure.
Symbiotic Relationships: In the wild, Venator ants nest in clay banks and share their homes with creatures like springtails and millipedes. These critters help keep the nest clean, feeding on waste and preventing mold outbreaks. A little nature’s cleaning crew in action!
Incredible Hunters: These ants are active day hunters, scouring for live insects like crickets and roaches. They have a fierce, predatory edge that makes them a truly dynamic species to observe. Just be sure to provide them with fresh, living prey regularly—these ants don't touch food that's already dead!
Setup Tips: For the best experience, create a natural setup or use an a Ytong nest with added coco fiber or clay-based substrates. The key is humidity—keep the nest damp and maintain a warm temperature of 25-27°C to keep these ants happy and active. Your colony will thank you for a habitat that mimics their natural environment.
Quick Facts:
- Colony Size: 50 to 200 workers
- Queen Lifespan: 3-5 years
- Diet: Live insects like crickets or roaches (no sugars)
- Nest Type: Natural, Earth, or Glass
- Sting: Intense and powerful!
- Bite: Yes, they’ll bite if needed!
- Worker Size: 14-16mm
- Egg to Worker: ~80 days at 25°C
Final Thoughts:
If you're an experienced keeper looking for a true test, these Primitive Asian Jumping Ants will absolutely captivate you with their dynamic, predatory nature and fascinating behaviors. But remember, this species is not for beginners—it requires dedication, knowledge, and a keen eye to make sure they thrive.
Ready for the ultimate challenge? The Harpegnathos Venator is waiting to take your ant-keeping game to the next level!
Harpegnathos venator - Primative Jumping Ant
The Law
It is illegal to release this species into the wild in the UK. If you can no longer look after your colony then you can contact us at any time and we will take them back free of charge.