Prenolepis Imparis ||Live queen|| [Winter Ant]

Notice: Please note that this species is quite sensitive in captivity having two diapauses. One in the winter (regular hibernation) and one in the summer. For this reason, we will price these ants cheaper at the expense that we will NOT be giving refunds for unsuccessful colonies of this species. 

Prenolepis imparis, otherwise known as the winter ant or the false honey pot ant. They are active only throughout spring, fall, and sometimes late summer. While they aren’t the most aggressive species, they do have a unique look. Unlike other ants in Canada, this species has repletes. (Essentially an ant that turns into a living food reserve.) 

Prenolepis imparis are also unique because of their polygynous tendencies. However it is not recommended to group them together, otherwise they would get overwhelmed by the shear amount of eggs and everything would inevitably mould.

Queens size: 7-9 mm

Worker size: 2-4 mm

Major size: False

Multiqueen: True, they are polygynous (Introduce queens during founding, DO NOT merge established colonies)

Nuptial flight timeframe: Mass flights occur between March-April

Hibernation: True, November-March at 1-10°C

Care Guide:

Prenolepis imparis have the possibility of failing even if the requirements in this care guide are met. Unfortunately, this is just the nature of this species. 

Food

Prenolepis imparis will eat most of the things get their hands on and might be a little hesitant in terms of hunting as a small colony. From insects (beetle larvae, fruit flies, or roaches) to meat (ham, turkey bacon, or chicken) and carbohydrates like Honey, sugar water, or nectar. (Fruit flies or peanut beetle larvae are recommended for this species.)

Temperature and Humidity:

The temperature should be kept from 18-29C and humidity between 30-65%, (room humidity)

Ant nest

Prenolepis imparis will do great in any of the Esthetic Ant products we list on this shop. Though, the colony should take up at least 40%+ of the nest capacity to insure the colony doesn't feel vulnerable and stressed.