Acrylic and modular formicariums

Why acrylic and modular farms are handy

Acrylic is clear, light and unaffected by moisture, so you can easily see the chambers, the brood and the ants at work. A modular system consists of separate nests, arenas and connecting tubes: start with one module and add more as the colony grows.

What to look for

• Chamber size. Chambers and tunnels should match the size of the ants: small species need shallow chambers, large ones need more room.
• Hydration. Farms usually have a water reservoir or a sponge to moisten. Check how to refill it without disturbing the colony.
• Escape prevention. Look for tight lids, fine-mesh ventilation and arena walls you can coat with an anti-escape barrier.
• Size for the colony. A nest that is too large harms a young colony: the ants feel exposed and may turn empty chambers into a rubbish dump. Start with a small module and expand step by step.
• Darkness. Ants are calmer in the dark, so cover the nest area with an opaque lid or film.

Who they suit

These farms suit most species that do not chew through plastic. For species that dig or gnaw soft materials, choose sturdier options or nests with aerated concrete or gypsum inserts.