Acromyrmex octospinosus (Leafcutter Ant / Parasol Ant) Colony

The Acromyrmex octospinosus is a fascinating Leafcutter Ant from Central and South America. Many enthusiasts become passionate about ants after seeing leafcutter ants carrying green leaves in zoos or museums – this includes the founder of Ant Farm, Jan-Peter Oudenampsen! It is therefore fantastic that we breed this species ourselves for hobbyists, museums, and specialist stores.

The perfect leafcutter ant for the hobbyist

What makes the Acromyrmex octospinosus so incredibly popular among ant keepers is their manageable colony size. While related Atta species grow into colossal colonies of hundreds of thousands of ants, a mature Acromyrmex colony reaches a maximum of a few thousand individuals. This makes this species excellent to keep and maintain at home, without quickly running out of space!

Fascinating fungus farming and division of labor

Like other parasol ants, these ants do not eat the leaves directly. They use the greenery as a substrate for their own underground fungal garden. In the nest, you see a beautiful division of labor: from larger workers who cut and transport the leaf, to small 'gardener workers' who care for the fungus and prepare it as food for the colony.

Only available for pickup at our showroom (Apeldoorn)

Because leafcutter ants are very sensitive to fluctuations in temperature and humidity (and depend on a healthy fungus), we do not ship these ants by mail. The colony can only be picked up by appointment at our showroom in Apeldoorn. During pickup, we take ample time to provide you with personal advice on ideal climate control, suitable leaf types, and fungus care.

Care and climatic requirements

Keeping Acromyrmex octospinosus requires dedication and experience. The colony requires a constant temperature (23°C - 28°C) and extremely high humidity (95% - 99%) around the fungus chamber. For food, they accept a wide range of fresh leaves (such as blackberry, rose, and oak leaves).

Acromyrmex octospinosus Specifications:

• Scientific name: Acromyrmex octospinosus
• Dutch name: Bladsnijdersmier / Parasolmier (Leafcutter Ant / Parasol Ant)
• Difficulty: 3 (Professional / Advanced – requires specific climate control)
• Queen size: approx. 13 mm
• Worker size: 5 - 12 mm (Nice variation between Minors, Mediors, and Majors)
• Colony form: Monogyn (1 queen per nest)
• Food: Various types of fresh leaves (blackberry, rose, oak, etc.) to support the fungus
• Humidity: 95% - 99% (Specifically for the fungus chamber)
• Temperature: 23°C - 28°C (Constant)
• Hibernation: None
• Distribution: Central and South America
• Delivery: Includes active fungus culture. Only available for pickup in Apeldoorn!

Do you want to bring the ultimate leafcutter experience into your home with a manageable colony size? Contact us or order directly to schedule your pickup appointment in Apeldoorn!

Atta cephalotes Ant Colony (Leafcutter Ant / Parasol Ant)

The Atta cephalotes (South American Leafcutter Ant) is, without a doubt, the most iconic and impressive ant species in the world. Many enthusiasts first became passionate about ants after seeing this fantastic species hauling pieces of green leaf in a zoo or museum. This also applies to the founder of Mierenboerderij, Jan-Peter Oudenampsen! It is therefore a great source of pride that we breed and offer this special species ourselves for experienced hobbyists, zoos, museums, and specialist shops.

Unique behavior: The underground fungus garden

Leafcutter ants do not eat the cut leaves themselves but use the greenery as raw material to cultivate their own food: a specific fungus. Within the colony, you can observe a fascinating division of labor. Large workers and impressive Majors (soldiers) venture out to cut and transport leaves, while smaller workers in the nest chew the leaves into pulp to feed and care for the fungus garden.

Available for pick-up exclusively at our showroom (Apeldoorn)

Because an Atta colony is very sensitive to fluctuations in temperature and humidity (and depends on a healthy fungus), we do not ship these ants by mail. The colony can only be picked up by appointment at our showroom in Apeldoorn. During pick-up, we take ample time to provide you with personal advice on ideal climate control, suitable leaf types, and fungus care.

Care and climatic requirements

Keeping leafcutter ants is a wonderful challenge that requires precision and professional dedication. The colony requires a constant high temperature (23°C - 28°C) and extremely high humidity (95% - 99%) around the fungus. As food, they accept a wide range of fresh leaves (such as blackberry leaves, rose leaves, and oak leaves).

Atta cephalotes Specifications:

• Scientific name: Atta cephalotes
• Dutch name: Bladsnijdersmier / Parasolmier (Leafcutter Ant / Parasol Ant)
• Difficulty: 3 (Professional / Advanced – requires specific climate control)
• Queen size: 25 - 30 mm (Giant)
• Worker size: 3 - 15 mm (Extreme variation from very small 'gardeners' to enormous soldiers)
• Colony type: Monogynous (1 queen per nest)
• Diet: Various types of fresh leaves (blackberry, rose, oak etc.) to support the fungus
• Humidity: 95% - 99% (Specific to the fungus chamber)
• Temperature: 23°C - 28°C (Constant)
• Hibernation: None
• Distribution: Central and South America
• Delivery: Includes active fungus culture. Available for pick-up in Apeldoorn only!

Do you dream of experiencing the most fascinating ant species in the world up close? Contact us or order directly to schedule your pick-up appointment in Apeldoorn!

Tree Bark Substrate (100 grams) – Natural Forest Floor for Your Enclosure

Give your ant or insect enclosure an authentic, natural atmosphere with our **tree bark substrate**! This 100% natural product simulates a real forest floor, making the terrarium or outworld not only look beautiful but also feel much more familiar to its inhabitants.

Natural Shelter and Hiding Places

A bare substrate can cause stress for many insects. The pieces of tree bark naturally create variations in height, crevices, and sheltered corners. This allows your animals to explore, climb, and hide under the bark to their heart's content. This reduces stress and stimulates their natural foraging and crawling behavior.

Perfectly Measured Quantity

The substrate comes in a convenient bag of **approx. 100 grams**. This amount is precisely proportioned to provide the bottom of our standard terrariums and outworlds/arenas with a beautiful, covering, and atmospheric substrate layer.

Key Benefits at a Glance:

• 100% Natural: Real tree bark without chemical additives or harmful substances.
• Natural Appearance: Instantly creates the look and feel of a real forest floor.
• Extra Shelter: Offers ants and insects safe hiding places and climbing opportunities.
• Convenient Portion (100g): Sufficient for covering the bottom of standard terrariums and arenas.
• Versatile Use: Suitable for ant farm outworlds, insect terrariums, and other enclosures.

Product Specifications:

• Product: Tree bark substrate / decoration
• Weight: Approx. 100 grams
• Material: 100% natural tree bark
• Application: Substrate and decoration for terrariums, ant arenas, and insect enclosures

Bring a piece of nature into your animals' enclosure.

Create an impressive XL ant setup with the Capital Hill Arena Stand

In the wild, ants live in a layered world: the dark nest is deep underground, while the worker ants forage above ground in the open air. With the Capital Hill Arena Stand, you can replicate this exact relationship for your largest colonies! This robust riser with dimensions of 25x16 is specially designed to place the Capital Arena logically and naturally above an impressive 25x40 gypsum nest.

Natural layering for large colonies

By raising the 25x16 arena relative to the 25x40 gypsum nest, an intuitive and highly realistic setup is created. Thousands of worker ants live in the 'underground' gypsum chambers and move through a natural ascending path to their 'above-ground' outdoor world. This stimulates instinctive climbing and foraging behavior and makes the connection between nest and arena visually spectacular.

Maximum stability for the Capital Arena

A large ant setup requires maximum stability. The Capital Hill stand provides a rock-solid base for the 25x16 Capital Arena, while the spacious 25x40 gypsum nest fits snugly underneath. This creates a beautiful three-dimensional effect: from your seat, you have a fantastic view of the bustling nest life 'below', as well as the intense foraging activity in the raised arena 'above'.

The advantages at a glance:

• Perfect 25x16 fit: Specifically designed to raise the Capital Arena above a 25x40 gypsum nest.
• Natural proportions: Logically places the outdoor world 'above ground' above the 'underground' gypsum nest.
• Instinctive route: Provides a smooth, ascending connection for a large flow of worker ants.
• Spacious display model: Turns a large ant farm into a real eye-catcher on a table, desk, or display.
• Rock-solid construction: Offers the necessary stability and safety for large habitats.

Give your large ant colony the ultimate, natural living environment and perfectly combine your 25x40 gypsum nest with the Capital Arena thanks to the Capital Hill Stand!

Create a Natural Plaster Nest Setup with the City Hill Arena Stand

In the wild, ants live in a layered world: the dark nest is deep underground, while the workers forage above ground in the open air. With the City Hill Arena Stand, you can replicate this exact relationship in your own ant farm! This clever riser is specially designed to place your outworld (arena) in a logical, natural way above a spacious 20x15 plaster nest.

Natural Layering: Plaster Nest Underground, Arena Above Ground

By elevating the outworld relative to the 20x15 plaster nest, an intuitive and realistic structure is created. The ants live in the 'underground' plaster chambers and follow a natural upward path to their 'above-ground' outworld. This stimulates the instinctive climbing and foraging behavior of the workers and makes the connection between the nest and the arena visually very appealing.

Beautiful Three-Dimensional Overview for Larger Colonies

The layered setup creates a playful, spatial effect on your desk, cabinet, or display. From your seat, you have a great view of the queen, the brood, and the plaster chambers 'below', while at the same time you can easily follow the feeding activities and scouts in the elevated arena 'above'.

The Benefits at a Glance:

• Specifically for 20x15 plaster nests: Perfectly matched for combination with a 20x15 plaster ant farm.
• Natural proportions: Logically places the arena 'above ground' above the 'underground' plaster nest.
• Instinctive pathway: Provides a smooth, upward connection from the nest to the outworld.
• Three-dimensional presentation: Gives your ant farm a deeper, spatial, and natural appearance.
• Stable and secure: Holds the elevated arena firmly in place.

Give your ant colony the ultimate, natural living environment and perfectly combine your 20x15 plaster nest with the arena thanks to the City Hill Arena Stand!

Compact Mister (200 ml) – Ultrafine mist for your terrarium

For the successful breeding and care of praying mantises, stick insects, amphibians, and tropical insects, a constant, optimal humidity is of great importance. This **compact 200 ml sprayer** atomizes water into an extremely fine mist. This provides the environment with exactly the necessary moisture without making the enclosure soggy or creating dangerously large water droplets for small insects.

Light, handy, and easy to use

With its height of 19 cm and a diameter of 6 cm, this plant sprayer is particularly handy. You can effortlessly operate the lever mechanism with two fingers. The sprayer is also equipped with a simple slide lock at the trigger. This allows you to safely store or transport the sprayer without it accidentally misting water.

Honest quality at an absolute bargain price

Functionally, this sprayer is 100% in order and does exactly what it needs to do: perfectly mist!

Please note regarding appearance: The plastic casing of this sprayer has scratches and blemishes. This is inherent to the manufacturing process and transport from the factory. Because the product works perfectly functionally, we are now offering these sprayers at an extra advantageous and competitive price!

Key benefits at a glance:

• Ultrafine mist: Creates a gentle mist ideal for sensitive insects and terrarium plants.
• Light & Compact: Comfortable to operate with one hand or two fingers.
• With lock: Equipped with a convenient safety feature against unintentional spraying.
• Super competitively priced: Functionally top quality at a budget-friendly price.

Suitable for the care of:

• Praying mantises and stick/leaf insects
• Terrariums, vivariums, and tropical breeding enclosures
• Humidifying outworlds, spider, and amphibian enclosures
• Small tropical houseplants and moss

Product specifications:

• Content: 200 ml
• Height: 19 cm
• Diameter (widest point): 6 cm
• Security: Includes simple slide lock (operate carefully)
• Mist type: Extra fine mist

Keep your animals' living environment at the ideal setting.

Cylinder Trio Leafcutter Ant Setup including Acromyrmex octospinosus colony

Many consider keeping leafcutter ants to be the pinnacle of the ant-keeping hobby. After years of testing, developing, and perfecting, we are finally ready to present our flagship product: the Cylinder Trio Leafcutter Ant Setup! This high-quality and complete set is specifically designed to create the perfect conditions for growing their underground fungus garden. The set comes with a healthy starter colony of Acromyrmex octospinosus with active fungus.

Thoughtful design for ideal fungus growth

Leafcutter ants prefer to build their fungus garden in a vertical position. The set consists of three robust acrylic cylinders, 20 cm in diameter and 30 cm high — the perfect shape for a stable microclimate. The cylinders are interconnected with extra-wide, sturdy acrylic tubes, a remarkable 32 mm in diameter. This allows the worker ants to effortlessly transport large pieces of cut leaves through the system, and they are fantastic to observe!

Maximum ventilation and escape prevention

The lids and connections are equipped with stainless steel mesh inserts and gnaw-resistant couplings. Even large colonies and powerful Majors (soldiers) with their sharp mandibles cannot penetrate them. The clever gypsum element at the bottom of the nest area, combined with the included heating cable, ensures the exact moisture and temperature balance that the fungus needs.

Personal service & ongoing support

Because leafcutter ants are the ultimate hobby for us, we never leave you alone after purchase. When you pick up the set at our showroom in Apeldoorn, we will take ample time to discuss the setup, temperature (approx. 26°C) and humidity (90-100%), and nutrition with you. Additionally, we are happy to stay in personal contact with you via WhatsApp to monitor the progress of your colony and answer any questions!

Contents of this complete package:

• 1x Acromyrmex octospinosus colony: Including queen, workers, and active fungus culture
• 3x Cylinder TRIO habitats: Premium acrylic cylinders (20 cm ⌀ x 30 cm high)
• 3x Cylinder lid rims + ventilated inner lids: With stainless steel ventilation grates
• 1x Gypsum base section: Provides the ideal moist substrate for the fungus
• 1x Heat source: Heating cable specially adapted for the nest section
• 2x Acrylic connection tubes (32 mm ⌀): For optimal leaf transport and visibility
• 2x End caps / closable tubes: To securely seal unused openings
• 3x Sets of furniture feet: Ensures the correct elevation for the heat source
• 1x Mini digital thermo-hygrometer: For accurate control of temperature and humidity
• Complete accessory set: Substrate (sandy loam 500g), anti-escape kit, sprayer (0.5L), bottle (250 ml), and tweezers

Specifications & Expandability:

• Suitable for: All types of leafcutter ants (Atta & Acromyrmex)
• Dimensions of basic set: 3x Cylinders of 20 x 30 cm (expandable with modules of 25x40 cm or 40x60 cm)
• Ideal nest area temperature: approx. 26°C
• Ideal fungus humidity: 90% - 100%
• Delivery: Only available for pick-up at our showroom in Apeldoorn!

Ready for the most spectacular ant adventure of your life? Order this complete setup directly or contact us to schedule your pick-up and instruction appointment in Apeldoorn!

Give your ant arena a forest look with the 3 Tree Stumps (3 cm)

Do you want to give your ant outworld a realistic and natural character? With the Decoration 3 Tree Stump element, you can easily add an atmospheric piece of forest to your ant farm's arena. This playful decoration piece features three small tree stumps next to each other, transforming your outworld into a beautiful miniature landscape.

Extra climbing and exploration fun for your worker ants

In their natural habitat, ants constantly walk over twigs, wood, and tree trunks. This miniature wood accent enriches your ants' environment by adding natural height differences and texture. Active worker ants will soon incorporate the tree stumps into their foraging route, climbing over them and curiously exploring the spaces around them.

Ultra-compact, ant-safe, and surprising

Thanks to its very small size of only 3 x 1 x 1 cm (W x D x H), this decoration takes up hardly any space on the arena floor. This makes it extremely suitable for mini-arenas or as a subtle accent in a larger outworld. The tree stumps are made of durable, ant-safe material that does not release harmful substances. Please note: this item is available in various natural color shades and will be sent randomly for a delightful surprise in your package!

The advantages at a glance:

• Natural forest look: Three detailed tree stumps next to each other for a realistic landscape.
• Ultra-compact size: At 3 x 1 x 1 cm, suitable for virtually any ant arena.
• Enrichment of the living environment: Stimulates the natural climbing and foraging behavior of the worker ants.
• 100% ant-safe: Made from durable, non-toxic materials.
• Easy to clean: Easy to rinse during periodic maintenance of the outworld.

Bring nature closer and order the Decoration 3 Tree Stump (3 cm) today at Ant Farm!

Decorative Bridge – Give your outdoor world an atmospheric and playful touch

An ant farm is not only fascinating to watch due to the colony's behavior, but also a beautiful miniature landscape to decorate! With this cute Decorative Bridge, you can instantly give your ants' arena a unique, atmospheric, and playful look.

Creative decoration for ants and observers

Thanks to its compact size of 8 cm long, the bridge fits perfectly in almost any outdoor world or arena. Create a creatively designed outdoor world with sand, loam, or miniature plants and give your ants the opportunity to 'cross the water' or walk across the bridge to their feeding bowl. It not only provides extra adventure for the ants but also makes observing your colony even more enjoyable!

Safe, durable, and dimensionally stable

The decorative bridge is made of sturdy and safe material that does not release any substances into your ants' living environment. It is easy to place, stands firmly on various surfaces (such as sand, tiles, or acrylic), and is easy to rinse when maintaining the arena.

Key advantages at a glance:

• Unique eye-catcher: Instantly gives the outdoor world a natural and cozy look.
• Compact size (8 cm): Fits effortlessly in small to large ant arenas and terrariums.
• 100% Safe: Made of durable material that is completely safe for ants.
• Stimulates natural walking behavior: Worker ants love to use the bridge as a route through their outdoor world.

Product specifications:

• Height: 3.5 cm
• Width: 2.0 cm
• Depth/Length: 8.0 cm
• Type: Arena decoration / Miniature bridge
• Application: Suitable for ant farm arenas, outdoor worlds, and terrariums

Turn your ant farm into a true work of art.

Give your ant arena a French touch with the Eiffel Tower Decoration (5 cm)

Do you want to transform your ant outworld into an absolute eye-catcher? With the Eiffel Tower Decoration, you bring the world's most iconic structure in miniature format to your ant farm! Enjoy an impressive and stylish decor where your worker ants can go on an adventure to their heart's content.

Unique climbing and exploration course for active workers

Ants are natural explorers who love structures to climb. With a height of 5 cm, this Eiffel Tower is the ideal castle for your colony. You will see how the curious worker ants imitate the steel structure by climbing up the pillars and using the top as a strategic lookout post over their outworld.

Compact footprint, ant-safe and easy to maintain

Thanks to its modest footprint of just 2 x 2 cm, the tower hardly takes up any space on the arena floor. This leaves more than enough room for feeding dishes, drinking stations, and waste areas. The Eiffel Tower is made of durable, ant-safe material that does not release harmful substances. When cleaning the arena, you can easily rinse the decoration under the tap.

The benefits at a glance:

• Iconic eye-catcher: Instantly gives your ant arena a unique, stylish, and French appearance.
• Compact dimensions: At 5 cm high (2 x 2 cm base), suitable for almost any outworld.
• Enriches the living environment: Offers ants a challenging climbing and exploration course.
• 100% ant-safe: Made from durable, non-toxic materials.
• Easy to clean: Simple to rinse during periodic maintenance.

Turn your ant farm into a beautiful miniature kingdom and order the Eiffel Tower Decoration (5 cm) today from Mierenboerderij!

Give your ant arena an attractive look with the Decorative House

Do you want to turn your ant outworld into a real spectacle? With the Decorative House, you can easily add atmosphere and character to your ant farm's arena. Whether you opt for a natural village landscape, a forested theme, or a playful arrangement, this house makes your ant setup complete.

Extra experience and climbing fun for your workers

Decorations in the arena are not only pleasing to the eye but also enrich your colony's living environment. Ants are naturally curious explorers. The decorative house offers them additional structures to climb on, hide under, or forage along. This stimulates the workers' natural foraging behavior and makes observing your colony even more fascinating.

Safe and easy to maintain

The house is made of durable and ant-safe material that does not release harmful substances to the colony. It is easy to place on any surface—such as arena sand, gravel, or artificial grass—and can be easily rinsed with water when cleaning the outworld.

The benefits at a glance:

• Unique eye-catcher: Instantly gives your ant arena a cozy, attractive look.
• Enrichment of the living environment: Provides ants with extra climbing and exploration opportunities.
• 100% ant-safe: Made from high-quality, non-toxic materials.
• Easy to clean: Easily rinsed during outworld maintenance.
• Versatile to combine: Fits perfectly into various arena themes and styles.

Turn your ant farm into a beautiful miniature landscape and order the Decorative House today!

Bring green into your ant arena with atmospheric Decorative Moss

Do you want to transform your ants' outworld into a realistic, green miniature landscape? With Decorative Moss, you can add a beautiful grass island to the arena of your ant farm. It looks like a soft, natural piece of grass or moss and immediately brings a fresh and forest-like atmosphere to your colony's habitat.

Climbing fun and expandable with flowers

Ants are active explorers who love textured surfaces. The structure of this decorative moss provides a fantastic climbing and walking surface for worker ants, offering them excellent grip. Do you want to decorate your arena even more creatively? The moss can be perfectly combined with small decorative flowers that you can easily place in it for a cheerful, colorful accent!

Choose the perfect size for your outworld

Whether you have a compact mini-arena or want to furnish a large outworld, this decorative moss always fits. It is available in two different sizes:

• Small (4 - 5 cm): Ideal for small arenas or as a subtle green accent.
• Large (8 - 11 cm): Perfect for larger outworlds or to create a real 'lawn'.

The advantages at a glance:

• Natural grass effect: Instantly gives your ant arena a lively and green appearance.
• Enrichment of the living environment: Offers ants a pleasant texture to walk and climb on.
• Combinable: Possibility to place a decorative flower in the moss.
• Two sizes: Available in Small (4-5 cm) and Large (8-11 cm).
• 100% ant-safe: Made from durable, non-toxic materials.

Turn your ant farm into a beautiful green miniature park and order your Decorative Moss today at Mierenboerderij!

Give your ant arena a unique atmosphere with the Decoration Pyramid (5.5 cm)

Do you want to turn your ant outworld into a creative and striking miniature landscape? With the Decoration Pyramid, you bring a beautifully shaped element into your home that immediately gives your ant farm arena a mystical and adventurous touch. An original addition that you, as the owner, can watch for hours!

Additional climbing and exploration structure on the slopes

In nature, ants like to use height differences and slanted surfaces to navigate quickly. The slanted walls of this pyramid offer the worker ants a natural climbing course. You will see how active scouts climb the pyramid, use the top as a clear vantage point, and forage along the edges.

Stable base, ant-safe and easy to maintain

With a square base of 5 x 5 cm and a height of 5.5 cm, the pyramid stands firmly on the bottom of your outworld. The structure is made of durable, ant-safe material that does not release harmful substances to your colony. During periodic maintenance of the arena, you can easily rinse the pyramid under the tap.

The benefits at a glance:

• Unique eye-catcher: Instantly gives your ant arena an atmospheric and mystical character.
• Perfect dimensions: With 5.5 cm height (5 x 5 cm base), suitable for almost any outworld.
• Enrichment of the living environment: Offers ants challenging slanted surfaces to climb.
• 100% ant-safe: Made from durable, non-toxic materials.
• Easy to clean: Easy to rinse when cleaning the arena.

Turn your ant farm into a beautiful miniature kingdom and order the Decoration Pyramid (5.5 cm) today at Mierenboerderij!

Give your ant arena a powerful look with the Decorative Rock (5 cm)

Do you want to transform your ants' outworld into a rugged and robust miniature landscape? With the Decorative Rock, you add a powerful, natural element to your ant farm's arena. This sturdy rock element forms a striking centerpiece in your setup and provides your ants with a realistic terrain to explore.

Extra climbing element and terrain enrichment for your workers

In nature, ants constantly navigate over stones, rocks, and uneven surfaces. This decorative rock enriches your colony's living environment by adding height and structure to the arena. Active workers will quickly use the rock as a climbing course or as an elevated lookout post to keep a close eye on the outside world.

Sturdy, ant-safe, and easy to maintain

With a compact size of 5 x 3 x 3 cm (w x d x h), this rock takes up little effective space, while its shape ensures it stands firmly on the ground. The rock is made of durable and ant-safe material that does not release harmful substances. During periodic arena maintenance, you can also easily rinse it under the tap.

The advantages at a glance:

• Rugged and powerful look: Instantly gives your ant arena a robust, natural appearance.
• Compact dimensions: At 5 x 3 x 3 cm, suitable for almost any outworld.
• Enrichment of the living environment: Offers ants a sturdy climbing and exploration course.
• 100% ant-safe: Made from durable, non-toxic materials.
• Easy to clean: Easy to rinse when cleaning the outworld.

Turn your ant farm into an impressive miniature landscape and order the Decorative Rock (5 cm) today from Mierenboerderij!

Give your ant arena a natural forest atmosphere with the Decorative Branch (6 cm)

Do you want to give your ants' outworld a realistic and forest-like character? With the Decorative Branch, you add an elegant, natural element to your ant farm's arena. This detailed branch is a wonderful enrichment for your personal decor and instantly brings the outdoor feeling to your ant enclosure.

Additional climbing and route structure for your worker ants

In their natural habitat, ants like to use fallen branches to navigate quickly and explore new territory. With its slender shape and length of 6 cm, this decorative branch serves as a perfect bridge or obstacle in the arena. You will see how active worker ants incorporate the branch into their routes and curiously investigate it.

Slender, ant-safe and easy to maintain

Thanks to its narrow profile of 6 x 1 x 1 cm, the branch takes up hardly any ground space. This makes it ideal to combine with other decorations, feeding dishes or a sand and gravel substrate. The branch is made of durable, ant-safe material that does not release harmful substances and can be easily rinsed. Please note: the color of the branch may vary (brown or black) for a playful and unique effect in your arena!

The benefits at a glance:

• Natural branch effect: Instantly gives your ant arena a realistic, forest-like appearance.
• Slender and elongated: With 6 x 1 x 1 cm, it fits perfectly into any outworld.
• Enrichment of the living environment: Stimulates natural climbing, walking, and foraging behavior.
• 100% ant-safe: Made from durable, non-toxic materials.
• Easy to clean: Easy to rinse when cleaning the arena.

Turn your ant farm into a beautiful natural landscape and order the Decorative Branch (6 cm) today from Mierenboerderij!

Give your ants the ultimate lookout point with the Decoration Tower (4 cm)

Do you want to transform your ant arena into an attractive and characterful miniature landscape? The Decoration Tower is a charming structure that immediately gives your outworld a unique look. Give your workers the chance to explore their surroundings from above and keep an exciting overview of the arena!

Extra climbing structure and exploration fun

Ants are curious creatures that love to use differences in height when exploring their territory. With a height of 4 cm, this tower offers the perfect climbing challenge for your colony. You'll see active workers quickly climb the tower to inspect the outside world or simply keep an eye on things.

Compact, ant-safe and easy to place

Thanks to its very modest base area of 2.5 x 1.5 cm, this tower takes up hardly any space on the ground. This leaves more than enough room for water dishes, feeding stations, and sugar water. The tower is made of durable, ant-safe material and can be easily rinsed with water during arena maintenance.

The benefits at a glance:

• Unique lookout post: Offers ants a fun climbing course and an elevated overview of the arena.
• Compact dimensions: At 4 cm high (2.5 x 1.5 cm base), suitable for almost any outworld.
• Atmospheric eye-catcher: Immediately gives your ant farm a playful and dreamy character.
• 100% ant-safe: Made from durable, non-toxic materials.
• Easy to clean: Easy to rinse when cleaning the outworld.

Turn your ant arena into a beautiful miniature kingdom and order the Decoration Tower today at Mierenboerderij!

Please note:
You will receive the voucher at home, which you can use to request the caterpillars at no extra cost via the breeder's website. In their system, you can select your preferred shipping date.

Painted Lady Caterpillar Refill (3 to 5 caterpillars) – Raise your own butterflies again!

Do you already have a butterfly garden or breeding cage at home and want to experience the miracle of metamorphosis up close once more? With this Painted Lady Caterpillar Refill, you get 3 to 5 fresh caterpillars to continue your breeding adventure. From March through September, it is the ideal season to observe this fantastic natural phenomenon in your own living room or classroom!

The magical process from Caterpillar to Butterfly

Raising Painted Lady butterflies is a fascinating experience that puts you right in the front row:

1. Growth phase: The caterpillars arrive in a breeding cup with plenty of specially formulated food. You don't need to pick any leaves yourself; the caterpillars eat directly from the provided food and grow at lightning speed.
2. Pupation: As soon as the caterpillars are fully grown, they climb to the top, hang upside down, and spin a protective, crystal-like cocoon (chrysalis).
3. Emergence: After a period of rest, the caterpillars emerge as breathtakingly beautiful Painted Lady butterflies! After a few days of observing and feeding them sugar water or fruit, you can release them into the wild.

Delivery and Breeding Guarantee

After placing your order, we request the caterpillars directly from our specialized breeder. The caterpillars are carefully packaged and sent directly to your address (average delivery time 1 to 2 weeks). We aim to deliver 5 healthy caterpillars, with a guarantee of **at least 3 healthy butterflies emerging**.

Main benefits at a glance:

• Includes Special Food: No hassle with finding fresh leaves; the food is included directly in the breeding set.
• Educational & Informative: Perfect nature project for children, schools, and nature lovers.
• Breeding Guarantee: Guarantee on the successful raising of at least 3 healthy butterflies.
• Sustainable Reuse: Ideal as a refill for your existing Netcage or butterfly breeding set.

Product specifications & Details:

• Contents: Cup with 3 to 5 Painted Lady caterpillars + special caterpillar food
• Butterfly species: Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)
• Availability: Seasonal from March to September
• Delivery time: Approx. 1 to 2 weeks (shipping directly from the nursery)
• Application: Refill for butterfly breeding sets, educational project

Bring the wonder of nature into your home. Order the Painted Lady Caterpillar Refill today!

Give your large ant farm the ultimate presentation with the Emperor Base Stand

Do you want to optimally enjoy your large, impressive ant colony? The Emperor Base Stand is the robust XL stand to display your ant farm stylishly, safely, and clearly. This stand has been custom-designed especially for the largest nests in our range: the Emperor plaster nest (Master Series) and the Jupiter 25x40 acrylic nest (Universe Collection).

Optimal view of your XL ant colony

By placing even the largest nests on this sturdy stand, the spacious chambers tilt at a perfect viewing angle. This gives you and your visitors a fantastic, direct overview of the queen, the immense brood, and the thousands of workers. You no longer have to lean over a large nest at an angle to follow the action up close.

Enormous space-saving and rock-solid stability

Especially with large nests such as the Emperor or Jupiter, the horizontal surface takes up a lot of space. The Emperor Base stand cleverly solves this: because the ant nest stands more upright, you immediately save a significant portion of the space required on your desk, dresser, or display. Thanks to the extra sturdy, balanced construction, even the heaviest ant farm stands rock-solid and safe.

The advantages at a glance:

• Perfect XL fit: Seamlessly suitable for the Emperor (plaster) and Jupiter 25x40 (acrylic) ant farms.
• Ideal viewing angle: Provides a crystal-clear view of all large chambers, the queen, and the seed stores.
• Maximum space-saving: Makes efficient use of space for larger ant habitats.
• Extra sturdy and safe: Specifically built to keep larger and heavier nests rock-solid in place.

For the ant keeper with a mature colony and the largest type of nest: with the Emperor Base Stand, you give your ant farm the professional appearance it deserves!

Extreme Sprayer 300ml

Fairy Shrimps Egg Capsule (5000 pcs) – Graceful Fairy Shrimp for Your Breeding Tank!

Do you already have the necessities for breeding Triops or Sea Monkeys (Aqua Dragons) and want to start a new, unique breed? With this Fairy Shrimps Egg Capsule, you'll get approximately 5000 eggs of the graceful fairy shrimp! Fairy Shrimps are fascinating freshwater creatures comparable in size to Sea Monkeys, but known for their elegant swimming.

Breeding Freshwater Fairy Shrimp

Breeding Fairy Shrimps is a marvelous process. Because the eggs are so small and naturally survive periods of drought, they come to life as soon as they are in the right water conditions. The capsule contains a large number of eggs (approx. 5000 pcs). Not all eggs will hatch simultaneously; nature selects the strongest creatures that grow into adult shrimp.

Brief Breeding Guide:

• The Habitat: Use a small container about 10 cm high with about half a liter of still spring water.
• Temperature: Bring the water to a temperature of approximately 25 °C (for example, with the help of a heat lamp on the container).
• Adding: Add the desired amount of eggs to the warm water. The first creatures will 'spontaneously' hatch within a few days!
• Feeding: After a few days, you can carefully feed the young shrimp finely ground Triops food.

Key Advantages at a Glance:

• Economical Refill: Ideal if you already have a breeding tank, heat lamp, and supplies.
• Large Quantity: Capsule contains approximately 5000 eggs for multiple breeding attempts.
• Graceful & Unique: Fascinating freshwater shrimp with very special swimming behavior.
• Educational Breeding Process: Great for children and enthusiasts of aquatic micro-life.

Product Specifications:

• Product: Fairy Shrimps / Fairy shrimp eggs
• Content: 1 capsule (contains approx. 5000 eggs)
• Water Type: Still water / Still spring water (freshwater)
• Recommended Temperature: Approx. 25 °C
• Application: Loose refill for aquarium and breeding hobby

Start your new underwater adventure. Order the Fairy Shrimps egg capsule today, a clear A4 instruction sheet is included.

Feeder Cube – Small, functional, and hygienic feeding in the outworld

Are you looking for an extremely compact way to provide your ants with water, sugar water, or honeydew without cluttering up the entire outworld? The Feeder Cube is a simple yet well-thought-out feeding dish that does exactly what it needs to: safely feed your colony and keep the outworld spotless.

Versatile for use as a moisture and food source

You can use the Feeder Cube for various purposes. Fill the dish with water as an extra moisture reserve in the outworld, or use it for liquid high-energy food like sugar water and honeydew. Thanks to the included lid and stable design, the ants can easily access the food without the dish quickly tipping over or spilling.

Usage and maintenance tip: We recommend always offering liquids such as sugar water or honeydew in combination with a small piece of cotton wool in the dish to prevent drowning. Refresh the contents of the Feeder Cube weekly and rinse the dish for optimal hygiene!

Key benefits at a glance:

• Ultra-compact design: Takes up hardly any space and fits into almost any outworld.
• Multifunctional: Suitable for water (moisture reserve), sugar water, honeydew, and gels.
• Clean & Hygienic: Includes lid and is easy to rinse.
• Stable: Does not easily sink and prevents contamination of the outworld floor.

Suitable for offering:

• Drinking water / extra moisture reserve
• Sugar water and Honeydew (in combination with cotton wool)
• Nutrient gels and fruit jelly

Product specifications:

• Length: 3.5 cm
• Width: 2.5 cm
• Height: 3.0 cm (including lid)
• Type: Cube-shaped feeding dish with lid

Keep your ant farm's feeding organized and safe. Order the Feeder Cube today!

Feeder Cube Mini – The smallest feeding dish for young colonies and small outworlds

Do you have a fledgling ant colony or a compact outworld where every inch counts? The Feeder Cube Mini is specially designed to offer maximum functionality in the smallest possible area. This allows you to safely provide your ants with food or water without cluttering their outworld.

Ideal for tiny outworlds and test tube setups

With a width of only 2 cm, this miniature feeding dish takes up hardly any space. You can easily place the Feeder Cube Mini in small outworlds, starter setups, or connected outworlds. You can fill the dish with water as a reliable moisture reserve, or use it for energy-rich liquids like sugar water and honeydew.

Usage and maintenance tip: When using liquid food (such as sugar water or honeydew), always use a small wisp of cotton in the Mini to prevent small workers from drowning. Refresh the contents weekly and rinse the dish for optimal hygiene!

Key benefits at a glance:

• Ultra-compact size: Only 2 cm wide, fits truly in any mini outworld or starter setup.
• Versatile in use: Suitable for water (moisture reserve), sugar water, honeydew, and gels.
• Includes lid: Prevents ants from falling in quickly or food from getting contaminated fast.
• Easy to clean: Made of durable plastic, quick and easy to rinse.

Suitable for offering:

• Drinking water / extra moisture reserve
• Sugar water and Honeydew (in combination with cotton)
• Protein gel and small food pieces

Product specifications:

• Width: 2.0 cm
• Height: 2.5 cm (including lid)
• Type: Ultra-compact cube-shaped feeding dish with lid
• Application: Suitable for all small outworlds and starter setups

Make optimal use of the space in your mini outworld. Order the Feeder Cube Mini today!

Feeder Tower (5 ml) – Effortless and automatic liquid food dispensing

Providing liquid food such as sugar water or honeydew can be challenging in the outside world. Loose drops dry out quickly, and ants can easily drown in larger puddles. With the **Feeder Tower**, that problem is definitively solved! This clever drinking tower continuously dispenses small amounts of liquid as soon as the worker ants drink from it.

Works on the principle of clever gravity

The Feeder Tower consists of a transparent glass test tube of 5 ml that you simply place upside down into the sturdy, specially designed base. Once the reservoir is filled, the vacuum and gravity action ensures that just enough liquid remains in the collection tray. The ants can drink from it safely, while the rest of the supply in the tube remains fresh and clean.

The solution for a weekend trip or vacation

Thanks to its generous 5 ml capacity, the Feeder Tower provides a small to medium-sized colony with the necessary energy for days, or even weeks. This allows you to leave home for a few days with peace of mind, knowing your ants won't run out of sugars or hydration.

Key advantages at a glance:

• Automatic dispensing: Automatically refills the liquid based on gravity.
• 100% Safe: Specially designed drinking openings to prevent drowning.
• Prevents evaporation: The sealed 5 ml glass reservoir keeps the food fresh much longer.
• Easy to clean: The glass tube and base are very easy to rinse clean after use.
• Ideal for vacations: Provides sufficient capacity for extended periods without needing attention.

Suitable for offering:

• Ready-to-use sugar water and liquid sugar solutions
• Honeydew and diluted nectars
• Clean drinking water / hydration

Product specifications:

• Reservoir capacity: 5 ml
• Height: including base: 4.5 cm (base 1.5 cm)
  
• Diameter: base 2.8 cm - bottle 2 cm
• Reservoir material: Transparent glass
• Base material: Durable plastic
• Application: Liquid dispenser / Drinking tower for the arena

Maintenance tip: For long-term use, ensure that liquids such as sugar water or honeydew do not mold. Rinse the tube and base regularly with warm water for optimal hygiene!

Always provide your ants with access to fresh energy and moisture. Order the Feeder Tower today!

Feeder Tower XL (15 ml) – Generous capacity for larger colonies and long vacations

As your ant colony grows, so does its need for liquid food and hydration. Small reservoir tubes quickly run dry. With the **Feeder Tower XL**, you offer your ants a generous supply of sugar water or honeydew that they can drink from for weeks, without it drying out or becoming contaminated quickly.

Smart gravity-based operation

The Feeder Tower XL consists of a robust, transparent glass test tube of no less than 15 ml, which is simply placed upside down on the sturdy, specially designed base. Due to the vacuum and gravity effect, a small, safe layer of liquid continuously remains in the drinking opening. As soon as the ants drink, the reservoir automatically replenishes it.

Worry-free on vacation

Are you going on vacation for a longer period or do you have a colony with hundreds of workers? Thanks to the large capacity of 15 ml, you no longer have to worry about daily refilling of liquids. The liquid in the glass tube remains well protected against evaporation.

Key advantages at a glance:

• Generous 15 ml capacity: Perfect for larger, fast-growing ant colonies.
• Automatic gravity-based dispensing: Automatically refills the drinking opening when ants drink from it.
• 100% Safe: Designed to prevent drowning of workers.
• Against evaporation: The sealed 15 ml glass reservoir keeps food and moisture fresh for much longer.
• Easy to clean: The glass tube and base can be quickly and easily rinsed clean after use.

Suitable for offering:

• Ready-to-use sugar water and liquid sugar solutions
• Honeydew and diluted nectars
• Clean drinking water / hydration

Product specifications:

• Reservoir capacity: 15 ml
• Height: including base: 7.5 cm (base 1.5 cm)
• Diameter: base 2.8 cm - bottle 2.2 cm
• Reservoir material: Transparent glass
• Base material: Durable plastic
• Application: XL Liquid dispenser / Drinking tower for the arena

Maintenance tip: For long-term use, ensure that liquids such as sugar water or honeydew do not mold. Rinse the glass tube and base regularly with warm water for optimal hygiene!

Give your larger colony the generous food supply it deserves. Order the Feeder Tower XL today!

Fruit Cup Holder Log - Natural, sturdy, and hygienic feeding

Fruit jelly and fruit cups are an excellent source of moisture and carbohydrates for ants, geckos, beetles, and other terrarium inhabitants. However, loose cups are quickly dragged away or knocked over by active residents. With this **sturdy Fruit cup holder in a log-look**, your fruit cup will always be firmly in place!

Atmospheric wood look made of durable resin

The holder is made of high-quality resin plastic and finished with a detailed, natural wood and trunk structure. This allows the feeder to blend beautifully into the outworld of your ant farm or a tropical terrarium. Is the fruit cup empty? Then you can easily remove the old cup and immediately place a fresh one.

Fits from Arena M upwards

Thanks to its smart, compact size (approx. 6.5 x 6 cm), the holder doesn't take up too much space. This makes the product extremely suitable for placement in the smallest arenas and various sizes of terrariums.

Key advantages at a glance:

• No more mess: Holds fruit cups firmly and prevents ants or reptiles from knocking over the cup.
• Lifelike design: Robust log appearance that seamlessly blends into a natural setting.
• Durable material: Made of sturdy resin plastic, easy to rinse and wear-resistant.
• Compact size: Fits well in an ant farm arena from size M.

Suitable for offering fruit cups in:

• Ant farm arenas and outworlds (from size M)
• Terrariums for geckos, lizards, and amphibians
• Enclosures for beetles, praying mantises, and other insects

Product specifications:

• Length: approx. 6.5 cm
• Width: approx. 6.0 cm
• Height: approx. 4.0 cm
• Material: Resin plastic
• Suitable for: Standard size fruit cups / jelly cups

Please note: As this is a natural cast product, exact colour tones and details may vary slightly from the photos in reality. Dimensions are approximate.

Keep the outworld of your ant farm tidy and attractive.