Latin name: Lasius niger

Taxonomy: Subfamily: Formicinae Tribes: Lasiini

Breeding level: Beginner

Geographical distribution: Europe, Asia (temperate climate), North Africa, North America

Habitat: Open lands and forest areas, often found in ruderal areas and urban areas

Colony form: Monogyne

Queen: Size: 8 - 9mm Color: Glossy black with a slightly brownish glow,

Worker: Size: 3 - 5mm Color: Bright black with a slightly brownish glow,

Major: No

Male: Size 3.5 - 4.5mm Color: Black

Food: Honeydew, but also a lot of small insects like mealworms, fly, mosquito, crickets etc ...

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

Temperature: Hunting area: 18 - 28 ° C Nest: 21 - 24 ° C

Hibernation: Yes, from mid-November to early March between 12 and 15 ° C

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

Description: Lasius niger is commonly called the black ants, it is widespread on all territories and adapts everywhere, this species is ideal for beginners because very easy to breed and with good development.

Development: Swarming from June to July.

Foundation: Set in a cloister (without food) Development: 30 days from egg to worker (depending on temperature)

Size of the colony: Up to 40,000 individuals, the queen can reach the age of 25 years.