The Maghreb carpenter ant
Camponotus barbaricus is a North African carpenter ant that has spread up to southern Spain and Portugal. Highly polymorphic, it has clearly differentiated castes: a 6 mm minor, intermediate medias, and 14 mm major soldiers with powerful mandibles.
Uniformly brown-black and hardy, it digs its nests in decaying trunks but also in dry, sandy soils. It’s one of the most heat-tolerant Camponotus — active at temperatures where other species take refuge in the nest.
If you want a species that copes with 28-30°C without flinching and loves warm spots, C. barbaricus is for you. A light heat mat and a warm spot are appreciated. Great viewing of the major soldiers from 200-300 workers on.
Annual cycle and founding
Nuptial flights in June-July after the first big heat. The winged queens are numerous and drop to the ground after the flight. Strictly claustral founding. First workers in 8-12 weeks at 26°C.
A milder winter diapause than its European cousins: 2-3 months at 12-15°C is enough. This flexibility makes it a good species for keepers without access to a true cold hibernation.
Unlike C. ligniperdus or C. herculeanus, which require 5-6 months at 5-10°C, C. barbaricus is content with a short, mild diapause (2-3 months at 12-15°C). A cool cellar or even a cool corner of a room is enough. A major advantage in a flat.
Keeping
Dry to semi-arid Mediterranean: 24-30°C, humidity 40-55%. A light winter diapause is mandatory. Ytong or plaster nest with dry galleries on one side, more humid on the other. Classic feeding. An excellent compromise between the (slow) European Camponotus and the (demanding) exotics.
Frequently asked questions
- How big is Camponotus barbaricus?
- Queen: 15-18 — Workers: 6-14.
- How long does a Camponotus barbaricus queen live?
- A Camponotus barbaricus queen lives approximately 15-20.
- How does Camponotus barbaricus found a colony?
- Foundation type: Claustral — Polygynous: No.
- What does Camponotus barbaricus eat?
- Diet: Insects, sugar, honeydew.
- Does Camponotus barbaricus need a diapause (hibernation)?
- Diapause: Light diapause.
- What temperature and humidity does Camponotus barbaricus require?
- Temperature: 24-30 — Humidity: 40-55.
- How large does a Camponotus barbaricus colony grow?
- Colony size: 3,000-6,000.
- Is Camponotus barbaricus suitable for beginners?
- Difficulty level: 3/5 (intermediate).
Sources & references
Authoritative references for further reading on Camponotus barbaricus:
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