ANTMART Labyrinth Yellow 220x110, Variant B is a formicarium with a vivid yellow body, winding nest passages, and a continuous gypsum layer beneath the living area. It is intended for moisture-loving tropical ants: the full-area gypsum insert distributes moisture across the chambers instead of concentrating it in one small hydration zone. Yellow, white, and transparent components create a strong visual contrast while keeping the colony visible for observation.

Full-area gypsum nest

A solid 6 mm plate of G-23 dental gypsum forms the base of the nest. Unlike a partial-gypsum formicarium, this model places the moisture-absorbing material beneath the entire tunnel system. Its broad evaporation area helps moisture reach the different sections of the labyrinth and reduces the likelihood of isolated chambers drying much faster than the rest.

G-23 is a high-density gypsum. According to the supplied product information, it resists softening and crumbling and withstands contact with strong mandibles better than looser gypsum materials. This arrangement is relevant for species that require a consistently humid nest. The actual amount and frequency of hydration must still be adjusted to the species and the condition of the colony; the input does not provide a fixed watering schedule.

Layered construction and fastening

The enclosure combines 3 mm layers of yellow, white, and transparent acrylic with PETG plastic components. White high-strength nylon fasteners hold the structure together. Unlike ordinary metal hardware, the polymer bolts do not rust or oxidize in a humid environment.

Nylon is also resistant to formic acid, making it suitable for a formicarium built around regularly moistened gypsum. It avoids the iron oxidation associated with metal fasteners exposed to moisture. The source makes unsupported claims about an exceptionally long service life, so the bolts, joints, and panels should still be inspected periodically as part of routine maintenance.

An 80 mm arena with a secured lid

The arena is 80 mm high and fitted with a double acrylic lid. The two-layer arrangement is designed to increase rigidity and reduce warping caused by humid air inside the enclosure. Mechanical sliding locks hold the lid in the body grooves and prevent it from shifting freely.

This secured closure is useful during maintenance and transportation because the cover is mechanically retained rather than merely resting on the arena. Before moving an occupied formicarium, however, the keeper should personally inspect the locks, connections, ports, and general condition of the enclosure. The supplied information does not establish that escape is absolutely impossible in every situation.

Four sections for controlled expansion

Removable dividers split the labyrinth into four independent sections. A small colony can initially be given access to only part of the nest. Additional sections may then be opened one by one as the worker population increases. This makes it possible to match the available living space more closely to the current size of the colony.

The natural-looking winding passages form a connected pattern of chambers and tunnels. Before introducing ants, check the positions of all dividers and open only an appropriate amount of space. No exact minimum colony size is provided in the source material.

Intended species

Variant B is designed for moisture-loving tropical ants, including predatory and exotic groups. The original product information identifies the following genera and groups as suitable candidates:

• Pachycondyla;
• Odontoponera;
• Pheidole;
• moisture-loving Camponotus;
• Carebara.

Compatibility should always be assessed at species level, since members of the same genus do not necessarily share identical husbandry requirements. The input provides no precise temperature range, ventilation setting, hydration schedule, or feeding instructions.

Important restriction

ANTMART Labyrinth Yellow 220x110, Variant B is not intended for Messor or other seed-harvesting ants that require dry chambers for food storage. A continuously moist gypsum base may encourage stored seeds to germinate or deteriorate. For harvesters, the source recommends Variant A, which uses partial rather than full-area gypsum. For very large colonies, it suggests considering roomier 200x200 formicaria.

Questions and answers

• Why does the gypsum extend beneath the whole labyrinth?

The continuous G-23 plate provides a large evaporation surface and helps distribute moisture through every nest section. In a partial-gypsum model, hydration is concentrated in one area and the remaining acrylic chambers stay drier.

• Why are nylon fasteners used?

Nylon does not rust or oxidize in a damp environment and is resistant to formic acid. These properties make it a practical fastening material for a formicarium that operates with regularly moistened gypsum.

• What are the benefits of the double lid and sliding locks?

The double acrylic layer adds rigidity, while the mechanical locks retain the lid in its grooves and reduce accidental movement. Their engagement and the condition of the enclosure should always be checked manually before transportation.

• Can Messor colonies live in this model?

This variant is not recommended for them. Harvester ants need dry storage chambers for seeds, whereas Variant B distributes moisture throughout the nest. A formicarium with a localized gypsum section and a dry zone is the more appropriate configuration.