Latin name: Camponotus cruentatus

Taxonomy: Subfamily: Formicinae, Tribe: Camponotini

Breeding level: Beginner

Geographical distribution: Western Mediterranean countries

Habitat: Clear forest areas, forest edges

Colony form: Monogyne

Queen: Size: 16 - 17mm Color: dark gray - black, first two segments of orange gastre

Workers: Size: 7 - 10mm Color: dark gray - black, first two segments of orange gaster

Major: Size 14 - 16mm Color: dark gray - black, first two segments of orange gaster

Male: Size: 10mm Color: Black

Food: Honeydew and insects: like flies, mealworms, mosquitoes and small crickets; also fruits

Humidity: Hunting area: 30 - 50% Nest: 50 - 60%

Temperature: Hunting area: 18 - 28 ° C Nest: 21-25 ° C

Hibernation: Yes mandatory from November to early March between 15-18 ° C

Nest type: Plexiglas nest, nest with tubes, reconstituted stone nest.

Description: Camponotus cruentatus belong to the largest ants in Europe, they are very aggressive and territorial.

Development: Swarming from June to July

Foundation: Set in a cloister (without food) Development: 40 days from egg to worker (depending on temperature)

Size of the colony: 10,000 individuals, the queen can reach the age of 15 years.