Pixel Black Variant B is an ant farm developed for moisture-loving tropical species that require a humid environment across the entire nesting area. Its 200 × 200 mm nest uses a continuous 6 mm layer of G23 gypsum, leaving 15 mm of chamber height above the gypsum. Black PETG components, concealed fasteners and matching nylon bolts give the structure a clean, unified profile with no hardware protruding beneath the base.

Construction and materials

The main colored parts use deep-black PETG instead of conventional colored acrylic. A monolithic plastic base conceals the fastening hardware, producing a flat lower surface that is suitable for placement on furniture. Black nylon bolts hold the assembly together. Nylon does not rust in the damp conditions for which this model is intended, while the matching color keeps the hardware visually integrated with the body.

The arena is covered by a double transparent lid made from 3 mm acrylic. Pairing two layers reduces the material’s tendency to distort under the influence of moisture. Mechanical gates close the designated passages. As with any inhabited formicarium, their position and the overall integrity of the enclosure should still be checked during routine care.

A fully gypsum-lined nest

Variant B is defined by its continuous gypsum floor. The 6 mm G23 gypsum layer extends across the whole residential zone rather than covering only selected areas. Moisture is therefore distributed through the floor of every nesting section, creating the humid conditions required by suitable colonies and their brood.

This layout is intended for moisture-loving tropical ants, including appropriate species of Pheidole, Pachycondyla, Odontoponera and Carebara. It is a specialized configuration rather than a universal enclosure. Humidity must be managed according to the biology of the exact species being kept, not merely the size of the workers or queen.

Sectioned living space

The 200 × 200 mm nest is divided into five sections and incorporates four independent hydration zones. Barriers separate the individual compartments, allowing the keeper to make space available gradually. A young colony can begin in a restricted part of the nest, with additional sections opened as its population increases.

There is 15 mm of vertical clearance between the gypsum surface and the chamber ceiling. This geometry is designed to accommodate queens, soldiers and larger workers of compatible species. Before relocation, the keeper should compare the ants’ actual dimensions with the chamber layout and confirm that all required passages are correctly prepared.

Arena access and maintenance

The arena has an overall height of 83 mm and includes a practical sliding door. It provides focused access for feeding, waste removal and routine interaction without requiring the entire upper assembly to be removed. This can make maintenance more controlled and reduce unnecessary disturbance. The door and gates should be opened only as long as necessary, particularly when handling fast-moving ants.

Intended compatibility

Pixel Black Variant B is designed for tropical colonies that benefit from a consistently humid nesting floor. According to the supplied information, the configuration has been tested with Camponotus nicobarensis and Camponotus pseudoirritans. It is also presented for suitable Pheidole, Pachycondyla, Odontoponera and Carebara species. A genus-level reference is not a substitute for checking the humidity, feeding and nesting requirements of the particular species.

Not for seed-storing ants

This model must not be used for Messor, Pogonomyrmex or other ants that store seeds inside their nest. The continuous damp gypsum layer can cause grain to germinate and deteriorate in the chambers. Such colonies require Variant A, which uses partial gypsum coverage and therefore allows less humid areas to be maintained.

Configuration overview

• black PETG colored components and a flat monolithic base;
• 200 × 200 mm residential nest divided into five sections;
• continuous 6 mm layer of G23 gypsum;
• four separate hydration zones;
• 15 mm chamber height above the gypsum;
• 83 mm-high arena with a sliding access door;
• double transparent cover made from 3 mm acrylic;
• mechanical gates and black nylon bolts.

Questions and answers

What distinguishes Variant B from the other Pixel configuration?

Its 6 mm G23 gypsum layer covers the complete nesting area, distributing humidity throughout all five sections. Variant A uses only partial gypsum coverage.

Can harvester ants live in this model?

No. The continuously damp floor is unsuitable for Messor, Pogonomyrmex and other seed-storing species because stored grain may germinate and spoil. Variant A should be considered for those ants.

Which materials are used?

The black colored parts and monolithic base are made from PETG, and the fasteners are black nylon. The double transparent lid uses 3 mm acrylic, while the entire residential floor is lined with G23 gypsum.

What warranty information is supported by the supplied description?

The source states only that delivery is covered for Pixel Black. It does not provide any other warranty period or additional warranty terms.