ANTMART Organic Black 220×110, Variant B is a formicarium with a full gypsum base for moisture-dependent and exotic ants. It is intended for experienced keepers who need a humid nesting system that can expand in controlled stages. The black enclosure combines acrylic, PETG, G-23 gypsum, and nylon fasteners, while its tall arena provides room for a biotope-style feeding and display area.

Full-area G-23 gypsum base

The defining feature of Variant B is a 6 mm G-23 gypsum slab covering the complete tunnel system. Water spreads through the porous base and is released gradually into the chamber environment. This arrangement is designed for species that require consistently high background humidity. The source gives approximately 80–90% as a reference for a properly managed setup.

G-23 is used as a dense, high-strength gypsum. It distributes moisture throughout the occupied area and is described as more resistant to ant mandibles than softer gypsum formulations. Full coverage also means that dry nesting space is limited, so this configuration should not be treated as a universal home for species with different moisture requirements.

Enclosure materials

The formicarium combines:

• white, clear, and black acrylic layers, each 3 mm thick;
• wear-resistant PETG components;
• a full 6 mm G-23 gypsum slab;
• black nylon bolts.

Nylon fasteners do not rust in a damp environment, which suits a system exposed to regular evaporation. PETG reinforces the structure, while the transparent and opaque acrylic components preserve visibility into the colony and create the black appearance of the Organic Black series.

An 80 mm-tall arena

The arena is 80 mm high, offering space for live moss, decorations, and a feeding area. Any layout should still leave practical access for cleaning, feeding, and colony inspection. Ventilation and moisture requirements must be matched to the species rather than determined by the decorative setup alone.

A double acrylic lid closes the arena. Its two joined sheets increase rigidity and reduce the tendency to deform under prolonged exposure to humid air. Sliding locks secure the lid during routine use and transportation. This construction forms an escape barrier, although joints, locks, and components still require regular inspection.

Three controllable nest sections

Internal dividers split the living area into three independent zones. A keeper can initially expose only a limited portion of the nest and connect further sections as the colony grows. This avoids giving a small colony an unnecessarily large empty space and supports gradual occupation of the formicarium.

Before introducing ants, confirm that only the required area is accessible, the remaining passages are securely closed, and the active section is being moistened evenly. Additional zones should be opened in response to colony size and behavior, not simply according to a fixed schedule.

Suitable ants and important limits

Variant B is aimed at humidity-loving predatory and exotic ants. The source identifies ponerines such as Pachycondyla and Odontoponera, active Pheidole, moisture-dependent Carebara, and certain tropical Camponotus as potential residents. Actual suitability depends on the requirements of the precise species and the colony’s stage of development; a genus name alone is not enough to confirm compatibility.

This formicarium is not recommended for dry-climate or desert species. In particular, a continuously damp full gypsum base is not intended for Messor or other harvester ants. Variant A, with partial gypsum coverage and a more pronounced moisture gradient, is the more relevant configuration for such colonies.

Moistening the base

Introduce water in small portions through the dedicated openings. The dense G-23 slab spreads moisture across its area, so each new portion should be added only after checking the current condition. Color provides a visible guide: the edge of the gypsum becomes lighter as it dries, while damp material appears darker.

For humidity-dependent ants, including the Pheidole mentioned in the source, the gypsum should remain moist rather than drying completely. The chambers must not be flooded, however. Water quantity and frequency vary with temperature, ventilation, evaporation, and colony size, and the supplied information does not prescribe one universal dose.

Checks before introducing a colony

• verify that full-area humidification suits the exact species;
• inspect the lid, locks, dividers, and connecting passages;
• add water in small portions and observe how it spreads;
• expose only the amount of nest space appropriate for the colony;
• preserve convenient access to the arena for routine care.

Frequently asked questions

Why use a full gypsum base for tropical ants?

The G-23 slab covers the entire nesting area, absorbs water, and releases moisture gradually within the chambers. This helps maintain the high background humidity needed by species associated with damp soil or decaying wood. A partial gypsum base creates a different moisture pattern and may better serve ants that require a stronger gradient.

How does the structure handle humid operation?

The double lid increases the rigidity of the acrylic section, PETG reinforces the enclosure, and nylon bolts are not vulnerable to rust. Regular inspection remains necessary: a humid formicarium requires ongoing checks of cleanliness, joints, locks, and material condition.

How can overwatering be avoided?

Add water through the designated openings in small amounts and watch the gypsum color. A lighter slab edge indicates drying, while dark gray gypsum remains damp. Do not add another portion until the chambers and the saturation of the complete base have been assessed.