Product Description

Cataglyphis bombycina, commonly known as the Saharan Silver Ant, is a desert specialist famed for its extreme heat tolerance and lightning-fast foraging. Covered with reflective, silvery hairs that reduce solar heating, workers sprint across scorching sand to scavenge insects during the hottest part of the day. This species prefers very dry, well-ventilated nests and thrives with a warm, bright foraging area. Due to its speed, sensitivity to moisture, and unique thermal ecology, it is best suited for intermediate to advanced keepers who enjoy desert setups and precise environmental control.

Species Overview

Native to the arid Sahara and adjacent deserts, the Saharan Silver Ant builds shallow to medium-depth sand nests with high airflow. Foraging is typically diurnal at peak heat; workers navigate by visual cues and quickly return to the nest as surface temperatures drop. Colonies are monomorphic to weakly polymorphic, usually with slender workers ~5–10 mm and a single queen; mature colonies may reach the low thousands under optimal conditions. Diet is primarily scavenged arthropods and sugars (no seed storage behavior). Their hallmark challenges in captivity are escape risk, over-moisture stress, and insufficient heat/light contrast between nest and outworld.

Comprehensive Keeping Guidelines

Optimal Habitat Configuration

• Nest Type: Dry sand or sandy-loam formicarium with strong ventilation. Provide a small, localized moisture spot for brood (do not humidify the whole nest).
• Temperature: Nest 24–30 °C; outworld basking zone 32–40 °C (brief peaks acceptable). Create a clear heat/light contrast to trigger natural activity.
• Humidity: Overall low humidity (approx. 20–40% RH). Moisten only one brood pocket lightly (40–50% RH) and keep foraging area dry.
• Space & Security: Wide, open outworld with tall walls/secure lid, fine sand substrate, and a reliable escape barrier band (10–15 mm). This species runs fast and climbs well.

Nutritional Requirements & Feeding Protocol

• Primary Diet: Small insect prey or pieces (mealworm, cricket, roach). They do not store seeds.
• Sugars & Water: 10–15% sugar water or honey water offered on foil; remove liquids after 2–4 h to prevent spills and mold.
• Schedule: Protein 2–3×/week; sugars always available in tiny droplets (replace frequently). Keep feeding points away from any moist nest area.

Special Care Considerations

• Heat & Light: Provide a bright lamp over the outworld (not into chambers) to simulate midday foraging; allow shaded retreats.
• Moisture Sensitivity: Avoid high humidity and standing water—this is a desert ant. Use micro-moistening only for brood.
• Escape Control: Renew the rim barrier regularly; ensure tight lids and tidy cable holes.
• Keeper Level: Best for intermediate/advanced hobbyists familiar with desert species and fast runners.

Important Acclimation Information

After arrival, keep the colony quiet and dry with a stable temperature for 7–10 days. Start with a small heat lamp window (LOW setting) to establish the hot outworld zone while keeping the nest cooler and darker. Offer a tiny sugar droplet on foil first; introduce small protein after day 2–3. Minor worker loss during transit can be normal.

Our Guarantee

• 100% Healthy Fertilized Queen Ants
• Free Replacement or Refund If Queen Arrives Deceased Due to Shipping

Responsible Keeping Notice

This is a desert, high-speed species requiring secure containment and careful environmental control. Never release captive ants; comply with your local regulations. Ensure desert-appropriate setups to protect animal welfare.

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