ANTMART Labyrinth Black 220x110, Variant B is a formicarium with a matte black body, transparent viewing elements, and a winding chamber layout inspired by natural underground tunnels. It is intended for colonies that require elevated moisture throughout the nesting area. A full gypsum floor, staged nest expansion, and a tall arena create a practical environment that can grow with the colony while keeping its activity visible.

Full-area nest hydration

The defining feature of Variant B is a solid 6 mm slab of G-23 gypsum covering the entire floor of the chambers. Water spreads through this base by capillary action, so moisture is delivered across the nest rather than being concentrated in one small insert. This arrangement is aimed at moisture-loving tropical species whose brood and nesting chambers should not be allowed to dry excessively.

G-23 gypsum is used as a dense, strong material suitable for a consistently damp environment. It is designed to resist crumbling under contact with ant mandibles better than a loose gypsum fill. The full slab also means that the nest does not provide a pronounced dry section. That limitation should be considered when selecting a species and planning the hydration routine.

Black Edition construction

The formicarium is assembled from layers of matte black and transparent 3 mm acrylic together with PETG plastic components. Dark panels frame the tunnel pattern, while the clear viewing side allows the keeper to follow movement through the chambers. The overall dimensions are 220x110 mm.

Black nylon fasteners are used instead of ordinary metal hardware. Nylon does not rust when exposed to water and is described as chemically inert, making it appropriate next to a damp gypsum slab and in an environment where ant acid may be present. This avoids introducing metal corrosion products into the hydrated area. The black hardware also matches the visual design of the enclosure.

Arena and reinforced top

The 80 mm-high arena provides space for feeding, routine maintenance, and suitable furnishings. It is covered by a double acrylic lid. The paired sheets form a stiffer top and reduce the risk of the acrylic warping under prolonged exposure to moisture evaporating from the nest.

Mechanical latches press the lid against the arena body. A close fit reduces gaps and lowers the chance of escape, including when small, active ants are housed. The keeper should nevertheless inspect the lid, latches, joints, and any service openings before introducing a colony and after every maintenance session. Structural safeguards do not remove the need for careful handling.

A nest divided into four stages

Removable partitions separate the tunnel system into four independent sections. A young or small colony can begin with a limited nesting area, with additional sections opened as its population increases. This makes it possible to match the available volume to the colony instead of exposing it to the entire nest from the start.

The curved chamber pattern gives the interior the sheltered character of underground passages. Dark surfaces and adjustable nest volume are intended to reduce unnecessary disturbance, while transparent panels preserve a clear view for observation.

Suitable colony types

Variant B is presented primarily for moisture-loving predatory and tropical ants. The source recommendations include:

• ponerines such as Pachycondyla and Odontoponera;
• active Pheidole;
• Carebara;
• moisture-loving Camponotus.

Hydration still needs to be adjusted to the biology of the exact species, colony size, temperature, and ventilation. A full gypsum base supports a humid background throughout the nest, but it does not mean that one identical watering routine is suitable for every listed genus.

An important compatibility limit

This model is not intended for seed-eating ants such as Messor. Excess moisture may dampen and spoil stored seeds. Colonies that require dry chambers or a stronger humidity gradient should be housed in a formicarium with a different hydration layout, such as Variant A.

Questions and answers

• How does the full gypsum slab differ from a partial insert?

In Variant B, G-23 gypsum extends beneath the complete chamber area. Moisture can therefore spread throughout the nesting block, leaving less distinct dry space. A partial insert is more suitable when a stronger transition between humid and dry zones is required.

• Why are the bolts made from nylon?

Nylon does not rust in constant humidity and does not produce corrosion residue beside the gypsum. The black fasteners also blend with the matte body panels.

• How does the double lid help with small ants?

Two acrylic layers increase stiffness, while the latches hold the top closely against the body. This reduces play and makes gaps less likely to develop. The lid and every fastening point must still be checked whenever the arena is opened.

• Should all four sections be opened immediately?

The partitions are designed to support gradual expansion. Additional space is best opened after the colony has occupied the available chambers and has a genuine need for a larger nesting area.