Solenopsis fugax

Geographical distribution: This species can be found in Central and Southern Europe.

Monogynous or polygynous species, both are quite possible.

Description of individuals:

Queen: It measures between 6 and 6.5 mm and is brown-black in colour.

Workers: The workers measure from 1.5 to 2.5 mm and are yellow to yellowish brown in colour.

Male: Males have a size of about 4 mm and are black in colour.

Diet: Solenopsis fugax feeds mainly on honeydew. In nature, they sometimes feed on the brood of other species, but in captivity, this can be replaced by small insects such as meal worms, flies, mosquitoes, crickets, etc.

Environmental conditions:

Humidity: The humidity in their hunting area must be between 30 and 50%, while in their nest, it must be maintained between 50 and 70%.

Temperature: The hunting area must be maintained between 25 and 30 °C, while the nest must be maintained between 21 and 28 °C.

Hibernation: Yes, during the period from mid-November to early March, at temperatures of 12 to 15°C.

Nest type: Solenopsis fugax colonies can be housed in plexiglass nests, nests with tubes or reconstituted stone nests.

Description: Solenopsis fugax is one of the smallest species in Europe, this is a big advantage when you don't have too much room at home, because even small, they are no less a delight for the eyes.

Foundation: The foundation of the colony is done in a claustral way, that is, without external feeding, and the development of the egg to the worker takes about 45 days, depending on the temperature.

Colony size: A colony of Solenopsis fugax can have up to 10,000 individuals, and the queen can live up to the age of 12.