ANTMART Trigon Black Variant B is a 200×200 mm formicarium designed for colonies that require a humid nesting area. Its black base, clear acrylic and pale gypsum create a strong visual contrast, while the triangular chamber layout gives the nest a distinctive structure that remains easy to observe.

A different chamber geometry

Instead of a conventional network of rounded passages, the Trigon series uses triangular chambers and connecting routes. The many corners and recesses provide separate spots where ants can arrange brood. This configuration also makes it easier to see how a colony occupies and organizes the available nesting space.

The residential area is divided into 5 individual sections. Internal partitions allow the keeper to open these sections gradually as the colony grows. A small colony therefore does not receive the entire nest at once, reducing the amount of unused space that could otherwise become a waste-storage area.

Full G23 gypsum coverage

Variant B has a 6 mm layer of G23 gypsum across the entire residential area. The design supports elevated humidity throughout the nest and differs from Variant A, which does not have full gypsum coverage. There are 2 main humidification zones separated by partitions, together with an automatic hydration port made for a 15 mm test tube.

Because the gypsum extends across the full nesting surface, this version is intended primarily for humidity-dependent species. The source recommends it for Pheidole, Pachycondyla, Odontoponera and Carebara. Camponotus nicobarensis, Camponotus pseudoirritans and Camponotus fedtschenkoi are also listed as suitable options.

Construction and materials

The base is made from PETG, while the transparent elements use 3 mm acrylic. The assembly contains no metal bolts; black nylon fasteners are used instead. Nylon does not rust or introduce corrosion residue into the gypsum, an especially relevant feature in a formicarium intended for regular humidification.

Usable chamber height above the gypsum is 15 mm. This clearance accommodates larger workers and queens; Camponotus japonicus is specifically mentioned in the source material. The dark background also improves the contrast of pale brood and makes movement behind the viewing panel easier to follow.

Arena and access control

The 80 mm-high arena provides a separate area for feeding, cleaning and observing above-ground activity. It is covered by a double acrylic lid. Using two acrylic sheets reduces the likelihood of the cover bending under prolonged exposure to humid air. Mechanical gates close the designated passages and assist with controlling access when sections are opened or the farm is serviced.

Species limitations

Trigon Black Variant B is not recommended for Messor or Pogonomyrmex, which do not require consistently high humidity across the entire nest. In the case of Messor, stored grain may germinate in chambers with damp, full-area gypsum. Variant A, with less extensive humidification, should be considered for these colonies instead.

Construction at a glance

• overall size: 200×200 mm;
• PETG base and 3 mm acrylic components;
• 6 mm G23 gypsum layer across the full nesting area;
• 15 mm usable chamber height above the gypsum;
• 5 sections for staged colony expansion;
• 2 separated humidification zones;
• automatic hydration port for a 15 mm test tube;
• 80 mm-high arena;
• double acrylic lid;
• mechanical gates and black nylon bolts.

Questions and answers

Why are the chambers triangular?

The triangular pattern creates numerous corners and recesses that ants can use when arranging cocoons and other brood. It also produces a clearly defined nest structure that is particularly visible against the black base.

Can this formicarium house harvester ants?

Variant B is not recommended for them. Its continuous gypsum layer keeps the entire living area relatively humid, which is unsuitable for the grain stores maintained by Messor. Variant A is the more appropriate configuration for harvesters.

What is the purpose of the nylon fasteners?

Nylon bolts do not corrode in a humid environment. Unlike metal hardware, they cannot develop rust or transfer metal-corrosion residue into the gypsum layer.