The black carpenter ant of America
Camponotus pennsylvanicus is the North American equivalent of the European C. ligniperdus. Large (queens of 18 mm), uniformly black, it populates the deciduous forests of the eastern United States and Canada, digging its nests in the dead wood of oaks, maples and other broadleaf trees.
Marked polymorphism: a 6 mm minor, majors up to 14 mm. Wild colonies occupy several stumps linked by trails (a “polydomous” system). Considered a “wood pest” in the USA when it settles in timberwork — keeping it is perfectly legal nonetheless.
If you enjoy the European Camponotus (ligniperdus, herculeanus) and want some variety, C. pennsylvanicus is an excellent choice. Very similar keeping conditions, comparable behaviour, but a species rarer in European collections — guaranteed originality.
Behaviour and ecology
Active mainly at dusk and at night. Nuptial flights in May-June after warm storms. Strictly claustral founding, first workers in 8-10 weeks at 24°C.
The classic opportunistic Camponotus diet: aphid honeydew, sweet sap, dead or live insects. It particularly likes sweet nectars and 30% sugar water (close to natural honeydew).
Unlike the rather diurnal European Camponotus, C. pennsylvanicus is nocturnal-crepuscular. To observe it well, watch your colony late in the day or in the evening (a red LED light, not perceived by ants, = ideal observation).
Keeping
Humid temperate continental, 20-26°C, humidity 50-70%. Hibernation 4-5 months at 5-10°C. Nuptial flight late May-June. A plaster or dead-wood nest. A medium outworld. Classic feeding + sugar water. Slow growth at first, then steady. A fine alternative to the European Camponotus.
Frequently asked questions
- How big is Camponotus pennsylvanicus?
- Queen: 15-18 — Workers: 6-14.
- How long does a Camponotus pennsylvanicus queen live?
- A Camponotus pennsylvanicus queen lives approximately 20-25.
- How does Camponotus pennsylvanicus found a colony?
- Foundation type: Claustral — Polygynous: No.
- What does Camponotus pennsylvanicus eat?
- Diet: Insects, honeydew, sugar.
- Does Camponotus pennsylvanicus need a diapause (hibernation)?
- Diapause: Yes (Oct-Mar).
- What temperature and humidity does Camponotus pennsylvanicus require?
- Temperature: 20-26 — Humidity: 50-70.
- How large does a Camponotus pennsylvanicus colony grow?
- Colony size: 3,000-8,000.
- Is Camponotus pennsylvanicus suitable for beginners?
- Difficulty level: 3/5 (intermediate).
Sources & references
Authoritative references for further reading on Camponotus pennsylvanicus:
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