Solenopsis Geminata – Expert Species
 
 
SOLENOPSIS GEMINATA from August 2023 became a BANNED species in the European Union. For this reason, only UK customers are permitted to order them.  Thank you
 
 
Geminata are a controversial species in the ant keeping community. Although many will wish to keep such a formidable species (as is their right) others will be furious at the concept of us even stocking them. We have imported them to mainly fulfil requests but to also provide the expert keepers out there with the craziest species we can keep.
 
It is imperitive that you feed your queen or colony with regular proteins and sugars (especially after their journey)
 
Geminata, although small will be insanely quick growing and pack a powerful sting. Especially in numbers (which there will be). Your colony with warmth and untapped food will reach tens of thousands in the first 12 months.
 
Found in many countries, this invasive species has all of the tools it needs to displace local ecosystems. They can dominate and area and with numbers there is not many other species or critters that can challenge them in doing so.
 
They love to nest in moist environments. This can find them on flood plains and inadvertently submerged in raising rainwaters and flooded rivers. This however is no issue for geminata as they can literally form a fast with their entire body which they use to transport their entire colony to safety.
 
Geminata are also polymorphic and have a major cast, it is fascinating to watch them “call in the reinforcements” creating trails to food.
 
This species stings so extreme caution in handling is advised. Before coming into contact with colonies you must be prepared with all of the equipment you need to hand, wear gloves and always ensure you have escape prevention in your setup which is refreshed and working.
 
Colony Size
Up to 1 mil workers.
Queen is fully-claustral, however we advise feeding your queen regularly to ensure proteins are in good supply for the development of brood.
Queen Age
8 to 11 years (est.)
Temperature
At least 26 degrees
Hibernation
No
Polymorphic (Different size casts)
Yes
Sting
Yes - Venemous sting
Bite
Yes
Diet
Lots of Proteins, Sugars & Water.
Nest Type
An escape proof nest.
Size
Queen - 6-9mm
Worker - 3-4mm
Major – 4-5.5mm