One compact chamber with a usable humidity gradient

The White 50x180 mm minimodule provides temporary housing for a queen and a small developing ant colony. Half of its living chamber contains G23 gypsum, while the other half retains a dry plastic floor. This gives the ants access to moist and dry sections within the same nest instead of imposing one humidity level throughout the enclosure.

An integrated micro-arena sits beside the nesting area. Food can be offered and leftovers removed there without opening the space occupied by the queen and brood. Separating routine feeding from the chamber is particularly helpful with active ants or when liquid food must be supplied.

Partial gypsum filling explained

The 10 mm G23 gypsum layer covers one half of the residential chamber. Once humidified, it forms the moister part of the nest, where ants can place larvae and other brood requiring humidity. The uncovered half remains dry and may be used for pupae or food stores that should not be kept on a damp surface.

This gradient is intended especially for less moisture-dependent species. The ants can arrange brood and stores between two microzones rather than living in a uniformly wet chamber. Internal clearance is 15 mm above the gypsum and 25 mm in the section without gypsum.

Easier access for feeding and maintenance

A conventional glass test tube has practical limitations. Changes in room temperature may produce condensation near the brood, and the wet cotton plug gradually collects dirt and can develop mould. Feeding also means opening the colony’s only exit, which may disturb the queen and give active workers an opportunity to leave.

In this minimodule, feeding takes place on the separate micro-arena, while the gypsum section is used for humidification. The keeper can reach the feeding zone and remove waste without dismantling the nest chamber. Careful moisture control is still essential: if too much water is added repeatedly, fungal growth can eventually appear on gypsum as well.

Visible, securely assembled body

The base is made from impact-resistant PETG. Transparent 3 mm acrylic provides a clear view of the queen, brood and stored food. Metal bolts hold the main enclosure together, while nylon fasteners are used on the micro-arena.

Sliding catches secure the lid in its closed position. They reduce the possibility of accidental opening during maintenance, tilting or careful transportation. Before the module is moved, each catch should be checked and all bolts should be inspected for looseness.

Model specifications

• Format: single-chamber starter minimodule with a micro-arena.
• Overall dimensions: 50x180 mm.
• Gypsum coverage: one half of the living chamber.
• Insert material: G23 gypsum.
• Gypsum thickness: 10 mm.
• Clearance above gypsum: 15 mm.
• Height without gypsum: 25 mm.
• Body materials: PETG and transparent 3 mm acrylic.
• Fasteners: metal on the main body and nylon on the micro-arena.
• Lid closure: sliding catches.

Suitable stage of colony development

The enclosure is intended for the founding period, when a queen or early colony does not yet need a large nest. Its compact chamber supports observation while the dry and humid halves offer different placement options for brood and stores. As worker and brood numbers increase, the colony will require transfer to a more spacious partial-gypsum or gypsum ant farm selected according to the species.

During use, water should be added in measured amounts, food remains should be removed promptly, and the micro-arena should be kept clean. Watching how the ants divide themselves between the moist and dry sections can also help the keeper understand which conditions the colony is choosing.

Frequently asked questions

Why does gypsum cover only half of the chamber?

Partial coverage forms a humidity gradient. The humidified area can hold moisture-dependent brood, while the uncovered surface remains available for pupae and food stores.

Does the module prevent mould completely?

No. Gypsum can also develop fungal growth when it is persistently overwatered. Moderate humidification and routine inspection remain necessary.

Can ants be transported in this minimodule?

The catches add security by holding the lid closed during careful transport. Before moving the colony, inspect the catches, bolts and condition of every enclosure component.