Ant farms

What you can see in a farm

In a clear farm you can watch workers move eggs and larvae to wherever warmth and moisture suit them best, the queen surrounded by her retinue, and ants tidying chambers and carrying rubbish to a dedicated 'dump' in the arena. As the colony grows it moves into new chambers on its own, and harvesters fill granaries with seeds.

Nest and arena

A farm has two parts. The nest is a set of dark chambers where the queen and brood live. The arena is the foraging area where ants come out for food and water. This mirrors nature: the colony feels safe in the nest, while in the arena you feed the ants and watch them hunt and forage.

How to choose a farm

• For the colony's size. A young colony needs a small nest, as it feels exposed in one that is too big. Modular farms let you expand gradually.
• For the species. Harvesters need a dry seed granary, tropical species higher humidity, and large ants sturdy materials.
• For you. Acrylic gives the best view, gypsum and aerated concrete hold moisture better, and a starter kit takes care of compatibility.