Let the ants do their work and watch a complete tunnel system emerge! This high-tech gel ant farm is a fascinating habitat for ants, based on the technology NASA used to study life in a weightless environment. The system is completely self-supporting: the high-quality, transparent gel serves as food, moisture, and shelter for the ant family. Assemble your ideal ant farm above and choose your favorite color and the desired number of ants!

We supply this complete gel ant farm including an informative booklet with detailed instructions on how to install and use the product.

Assemble your ant farm to your liking:

Simply make your choices in the menu above to complete your ant farm:

• Choose your frame color: Will you go for a sleek White, natural Brown, or fresh Green frame?
• Choose your ant family (Messor barbarus):
  • No ants (if you already have suitable ants or are just looking for the ant farm)
  • Ant family L – 15-20 active workers
  • Ant family XL – 25-30 active workers for significant activity
  • Ant family XXL – 40-50 active workers for immediate full activity!

What's included?

• Gel Ant Farm: Large habitat (15 x 15 x 2 cm) in your chosen color scheme.
• Ant Family (optional): A test tube with active Southern European worker ants (if selected).
• Accessories: Magnifying glass and connection material
• Education: Detailed full-color manual with step-by-step instructions.

How the Gel Ant Farm Works

How long do ants live in the gel? Worker ants typically live a few weeks to several months and are guaranteed to start digging immediately. If something unexpectedly goes wrong in the first two weeks and the ants die? We will send a replacement ant family free of charge. Please note: this ant keeper contains a family of workers (no queen or brood) and is purely intended for studying fascinating digging behavior, not for breeding an ant colony.

How long does the gel last?

The specially developed gel is a complete and ample food source. Since ants are efficient eaters and even reuse waste, you never need to add extra food or water. Do you want to start fresh with a new ant family later? We also have convenient gel refills available in various colors in our webshop.

Maintenance & Care

Maintaining this gel ant farm is extremely simple:

• No need to feed or water; the gel contains everything they need.
• Open the lid briefly once a week for a little fresh air.
• Remove condensation and any surface waste when possible.

About the Ant Family

If you choose an option including ants? You will receive strong worker ants from Southern Europe (Messor barbarus). This species is known for digging impressive underground tunnels and chambers in nature. The ants are safely shipped in a test tube, where they can stay for up to a week after receipt without problems. How to successfully and safely place the ants in their new gel environment is explained step-by-step in the included instruction booklet.

Bring nature to life in the classroom with the Gel School Pack

Are you looking for an original, educational, and interactive project for the classroom? The Ant Farm Gel School Pack gives students a unique insight into the fascinating life of ants. This complete educational package is specially designed for schools and after-school care to bring biology closer in a tangible and inspiring way.

Low maintenance and safe for the classroom

The great advantage of a gel ant farm is its fantastic ease of use. The transparent, high-quality gel not only serves as a digging medium in which the ants make their tunnels, but also as their direct source of food and moisture. This means that extra feeding or humidification is not necessary, making the package extremely suitable and carefree for use in the classroom.

Crystal clear view of digging activities

Thanks to the clear material of the gel nest, children can follow crystal-clearly from all sides how the worker ants cooperate, dig tunnels, and organize the colony. It helps students learn about nature, cooperation, and the life cycle of insects in a playful way.

The benefits at a glance:

• Complete school package: Ready for immediate use in the classroom or after-school care.
• All-in-one gel: Functions as digging material, food, and moisture source in one.
• Minimal maintenance: No daily feeding or humidification required.
• Maximally educational: Provides crystal-clear insight into the digging process and the work structure of ants.
• Safe and clear: Designed for a clean and carefree observation experience.

Turn your biology class into an unforgettable experience and let the class delve into the wonderful world of ants with the Ant Farm Gel School Pack!

Ant's Kingdom Emperor

A sleekly designed gypsum Ant Farm forms the heart of this setup. A completely handmade, robust gypsum nest, very sturdily mounted.

Unique moisture supply

The ant farm is specially designed with a unique moisture reservoir. From the center of the nest, you regulate the humidity with the included syringe. The system is very practical with this unique water supply.

Layout and connecting the Emperor

The chambers in the middle around the moisture reservoir are shallow (7mm), allowing you to observe the center of your colony well. The chambers on the outside are deeper (12mm), so the worker ants can neatly store their seeds and food supplies there. All chambers and tunnels are interconnected. Be amazed at how the ants use and arrange this space and experience for yourself how intelligent these special animals are!

On both sides, an opening has been made to connect the Ant Farm to the nest tube with the colony and the feeding dish or arena. Choose an arena (or the feeding dish) to complete your setup, and we will include the connection materials for free!

Ant Colony

Almost all ant colonies can be kept in this nest. Choose a colony above for a special price. We do advise starting small and using the combination of ant colony with arena as a starting point.

Feeding Set

The diet of a Lasius ant colony consists of a combination of sugar water, honeydew, and fruit flies, and for a Messor colony, seeds are also added. A feeding kit can be ordered above.

Contents

What do you receive when ordering this product?
- The Emperor
- Moisture syringe 20 ml
- 1 sealing cap
- Full-color instruction flyer

Specifications

Length: 40 cm
Width: 25 cm
Thickness: 4cm (nest part varying from 7 to 12 mm)
Number of connection possibilities gypsum nest: 2 (10mm - on both sides)
Number of chambers: 8
Number of ants: suitable for hundreds (or even a few thousand) ants for most species
Humidification system through a recess in the middle
Duration of nest humidity: 1-2 weeks, depending on the number of ants and ambient temperature.

Plaster Ant Farm General (master series Ant's Kingdom)

A sleekly designed plaster Ant Farm forms the heart of this setup. A completely handmade robust plaster nest, very securely mounted.

Unique moisture supply

The ant farm is specially designed with a unique moisture reservoir. From the center of the nest, you regulate the humidity with the included syringe. The system is very practical with this unique water supply.

Layout and connection General

The chambers in the middle around the moisture reservoir are shallow (5mm), allowing you to observe the center of your colony well. The chambers on the outside are deeper (10mm), allowing the workers to store their seeds and food supplies nicely there. All chambers and passages are connected to each other. Be amazed at how the ants use and arrange this space and experience for yourself whether they stick to our 'script'!
An opening has been made on both sides to connect the Ant Farm to the nest tube with the colony and the feeding dish or arena. Choose an arena (or the feeding dish) to complete your setup!

Ant Colony

Almost all ant colonies can be kept in this nest. Choose a colony above for a special price.

Feeding Set

The diet of a Lasius ant colony consists of a combination of sugar water, honeydew, and fruit flies, and for a Messor colony, seeds are also added. A feeding set can be ordered above.

Contents

What do you receive when you order this product?
- The General
- Moisture syringe 5 ml
- 1 sealing cap
- Full-color instruction flyer

Specifications

Length: 21 cm
Width: 14 cm
Thickness: 3cm (nest part varying from 5 to 10 mm)
Number of connection options plaster nest: 2 (10mm - on both sides)
Number of chambers: 8
Number of ants: suitable for up to 400 ants for most species
Moisturizing system through a recess in the middle
Duration of nest humidity: 1-2 weeks, depending on the number of ants and the ambient temperature.

Ant's Kingdom Major

A sleekly designed plaster ant farm forms the heart of this setup. A completely handmade, robust plaster nest, very solidly mounted.
 

Unique Humidity System

The ant farm is specially designed with a unique moisture reservoir. From the center of the nest, you can regulate the humidity with the included syringe. The system is very practical with this unique water supply. 

Layout and Connecting the Major Ant Farm

The chambers in the middle around the moisture reservoir are shallow (4mm), so you can observe the center of your colony well. The chambers on the outside are deeper (7mm), so the worker ants can store their seeds and food supply there nicely. All chambers and tunnels are interconnected. Be amazed at how the ants use and arrange this space, and experience for yourself how intelligent these special animals are!

An opening has been made on both sides to connect the Ant Farm to the test tube with the colony and the feeding dish or arena. Choose an arena (or the feeding dish) to complete your setup!

Ant Colony

Almost all ant colonies can be kept in this nest. Choose a colony above for a special price.

Feeding Set

The diet of a Lasius ant colony consists of a combination of sugar water, honeydew, and fruit flies, and for a Messor colony, seeds are also added. A feeding kit can be ordered above.

Contents

What do you receive when ordering this product?
- The Major
- Moisture syringe 5 ml
- 1 sealing cap 
- Full-color instruction flyer

Specifications

Length: 15 cm
Width: 10cm
Thickness: 3cm (nest part varying from 4 to 7 mm)
Number of connection options for plaster nest: 2 (10mm - on both sides)
Number of chambers: 8
Number of ants: suitable for up to 200 ants for most species
Humidification system through a recess in the middle
Duration of nest humidity: 1-2 weeks, depending on the number of ants and ambient temperature.

Ant Farm Plaster School Package – A fascinating 8-week class project!

This school package contains products for keeping ants and is specifically designed for schools, childcare centers, childminders, and organizations focused on children. Learn about ants in a fun and educational way! This package is specifically intended for children aged 9-12 (grades 4-7). The school package includes extensive instructions to turn it into an 8-week project!

Package Contents

The package contains the following products and components:

• Master set with Messor barbarus ant colony including food
• Ant life cycle (models)
• 30 stickers for the children in the class or group (more upon request)
• Simple leaflet for teacher or supervisor with explanation and instructions
• Booklet 'Ants are heroes!'

Ant Farm Plaster Starter Set

Discover the fascinating world of the harvester ant with this high-quality plaster ant farm starter set!

Contents of this starter set:

• Ant Farm Plaster Major (with 2 connection openings)
• Town Square Arena (15x10x9 cm – 2 connections)
• Full-color, multilingual instruction booklet with clear step-by-step plan and complete explanation to successfully start your hobby
• Connection hose (can be cut to size)
• Test tube connector
• Ant Docking Station (protects the queen and her ant colony)
• Protective film for the nest area
• Moisture sprayer for precise moistening of the reservoir

Why is a plaster nest perfect for Harvester Ants?

Harvester ants have specific requirements for their living environment. They need good moisture gradation: a humid section for brood care (eggs and larvae) and a bone-dry section for storing their winter supply of seeds.

The sleekly designed plaster nest provides the perfect solution. Each nest is completely handmade and equipped with a unique central moisture reservoir. This naturally creates moist chambers around the core, while the outer chambers remain dry. The shallow inner chambers (4 mm) are perfect for optimal observation, while the deeper outer chambers (7 mm) will be directly used by the harvester ants as grain silos.

Thanks to our years of experience, this set includes a beautiful full-color instruction booklet. This multilingual manual guides you through the startup phase with a clear step-by-step plan, so you know exactly how to best care for the colony and successfully build up the hobby.

We developed this set as part of our 'Master Series' – a high-quality line of ant farms with maximum durability and functionality. Because each nest is handmade, the color may vary slightly.

Specifications & Technical data:

Nest Specifications:

• Plaster nest length: 15 cm
• Plaster nest width: 10 cm
• Plaster nest thickness: 3 cm (chamber depth 4–7 mm for optimal seed storage)
• Plaster nest connections: 2 × 10 mm (easily expandable)
• Number of chambers: 8 chambers
• Capacity: Suitable for a colony of up to ±200 ants
• Moisturizing: Central moisture reservoir (effective for 1-2 weeks)

Arena Features:

• Arena size: 15 x 10 x 9 cm
• Arena connections: 2 × 10 mm
• Ventilation: Equipped with an escape-proof arena ventilation lid

Ant farm starter kit

The best foundation for starting to raise your own ant colony can be found in this starter kit!

The biggest challenge of the hobby lies in the beginning. How do you ensure your queen and a few workers grow into a healthy, large colony? The 'Ant Dock Station' in combination with the arena makes this a lot easier.

In addition to the great shelter and the robust character of the 'Ant Dock Station', you can now also provide your ants with the right temperature. At the end of the Dock, there is a slot where the 1-meter heat cable fits perfectly (available as an optional add-on). By positioning the heat cable correctly, you can provide the test tube containing your ant colony with the right temperature. Now your ants will stay nice and warm, even during the cold periods of the year! With the right temperature, your colony grows the fastest, which is exactly what you want!

The Dock where you place the test tube can be seen as the nest section, which is normally underground. Warm from the sun, sheltered by the earth, and ventilated for the ants. This is all incorporated into the Dock. The Arena is the section above ground. In this outdoor living area, which the ants can reach via the transport tube, the ants can collect their food (which you place there once a week) and take away their waste.

How cool is it to be able to watch the ants working together and moving through the tube from up close.

This starter kit is suitable for all types of ants. Don't have a colony yet? Then you can choose from different species above, including food, and add them to your order at great promotional prices. You can also order the heat cable and decorations for your arena above. 

Contents of the set

- Ant Dock Station
- Town Square Arena (15x10x9cm)
- Ant-Blox test tube connector
- End cap
- Connection tube
- Instructions in the video and on our YouTube channel
- Printed booklet with instructions on how to properly start the ant-keeping hobby

Ant Farm Sand School Package – A fascinating 8-week class project!

This school package contains products for keeping ants and is specifically designed for schools, childcare centers, host parents, and child-focused institutions. Learn about ants in a fun and educational way! This package is specifically intended for children aged 8-11. The school package includes comprehensive instructions to turn it into an 8-week project!

Package Contents

The package contains the following products and components:

• Sand Ant Farm with ant colony including food
• Ant life cycle (models)
• 30 stickers for the children in the class or group (more available upon request)
• Simple leaflet for teachers or supervisors with explanations and instructions
• Booklet 'Ants are heroes!'

Ant Farm Sand Starter Set – Natural Digging Behavior

Do you want to keep ants in the most natural way? In this classic sand ant farm, the ants dig their own chambers and tunnels, exactly as they do in nature. This starter set is constructed from high-quality, transparent plexiglass and combines the nest part and the arena in one sleek setup. Customize the set completely to your wishes.

Contents of the sand starter set:

• Sand Ant Farm (Nest part 15x15x1.4 cm)
• Integrated Town Square Arena (15x10x9 cm) with ventilated lid
• Full-color, multilingual instruction booklet with clear step-by-step instructions and complete explanations to successfully start your hobby
• Special Sand Clay Filling (300 grams) – the ideal mix for sturdy, collapse-proof tunnels
• Ant Docking Station (for optimal positioning and protection of the test tube)
• Moisture sprayer for precise humidification of the sand
• Connection hose & test tube connector
• Feeding set (sufficient for the first few months to a year)

Authentic craftsmanship from the Netherlands

We make this Ant Farm sand set entirely by hand in-house in the Netherlands! Because we manually produce and assemble each product, you may see small, light imperfections (such as tiny smudges or edges) up close or under bright lighting. We, of course, do everything we can to deliver each nest as neat and precise as possible.

Both the nest part and the arena are equipped with 10 mm connection openings on both sides. This allows you to effortlessly connect additional modules or a larger outworld to the set in the future. You can eventually build an enormous ant city!

When starting, please note that a colony needs to get used to the new environment. They will first develop further from their protected test tube before they start digging. Raising a colony therefore always requires some patience at the beginning but rewards you with a beautiful, natural spectacle.

Specifications & Technical data:

Nest Specifications:

• Material: High-quality, transparent plexiglass
• Nest part size: 15 x 15 cm (Internal depth: 1.4 cm for perfect viewing)
• Number of chambers: 1 large main chamber, the ants arrange the chambers themselves by digging
• Connections: 2 × 10 mm (on both sides)
• Capacity: Suitable for a colony of up to ±500 ants
• Humidification: Manually via the moisture sprayer (keep the sand partially lightly moist)

Arena Features:

• Arena size: 15 x 10 x 9 cm
• Accessibility: Directly connected to the nest part via connection hoses
• Connections: 2 × 10 mm
• Ventilation: Equipped with escape-proof openings in the lid
• Accessibility: Can be fully opened via the lid for easy feeding and cleaning

Ant Family L: 15 to 20 active worker ants for your Gel Ant Farm

Looking for the ideal inhabitants for your gel ant farm with a bit more activity? This Ant Family L consists of 15 to 20 active Spanish worker ants. This ant species is active all year round, making them perfectly suited for digging the most beautiful tunnel systems in our gel ant farms.

Includes physical full-colour manual

With your order, you will receive a physical, full-colour manual with clear instructions and helpful tips. This way, you'll know exactly how to best place and care for the ants for an optimal start to your gel ant farm.

Guarantee and quality from Antfarm

We guarantee that our ants will dig in our gel products. If they don't, or if they don't survive the first two weeks (with proper care)? Then we will provide a free replacement.

Please note with other providers: Ants unfortunately often do not accept gel from other brands. The purchase of our ants for gel products outside our webshop is therefore at your own risk. We offer a 100% digging guarantee on all our own gel ant farms.

Shipping, packaging and storage

You will receive the ants safely packaged in a test tube via fast shipping. Upon receipt, you can keep the ant family in the tube for up to a week, but we advise placing them in the gel as soon as possible to prevent dehydration. Ants in a gel ant farm live on average a few months to longer than half a year.

The advantages at a glance:

• Specifically for gel ecosystems: Active worker ants that excel at digging in gel.
• Includes physical manual: Clear full-colour guide with instructions with your order.
• Unique digging guarantee: Assurance of a digging and active ant family.
• Carefully packaged: Safely delivered with fast shipping.

Start your gel ant farm today and order Ant Family L (15-20 worker ants) from Antfarm!

Ant Family M: 10 to 15 active worker ants for your Gel Ant Farm

Looking for the ideal inhabitants for your gel ant farm? This Ant Family M consists of 10 to 15 active Spanish worker ants. This ant species is active all year round, making them perfectly suited for digging the most beautiful tunnel systems in our gel ant farms.

Includes physical full-colour manual

With your order, you will receive a physical, full-colour manual with clear instructions and helpful tips. This way, you'll know exactly how to best place and care for the ants for an optimal start to your gel ant farm.

Ant Farm Guarantee and Quality

We guarantee that our ants will dig in our gel products. If they don't, or if they don't survive the first two weeks (with proper care), we will provide a free replacement.

Note for other providers: Ants often do not accept gel from other brands. The purchase of our ants for gel products outside our webshop is therefore at your own risk. We offer a 100% digging guarantee on all our own gel ant farms.

Shipping, packaging, and storage

You will receive the ants safely packaged in a test tube via letterbox post. After receipt, you can keep the ant family in the tube for up to a week, but we advise placing them in the gel as soon as possible to prevent dehydration. Ants in a gel ant farm live on average a few months to more than half a year.

The advantages at a glance:

• Specifically for gel ecosystems: Active worker ants that dig exceptionally well in gel.
• Includes physical manual: Clear full-colour guide with instructions with your order.
• Unique digging guarantee: Assurance of a digging and active ant family.
• Convenient letterbox post: You don't have to be home to receive it.

Start your gel ant farm today and order Ant Family M (10-15 worker ants) from Ant Farm now!

Ant Family XL: 25 to 30 active workers for your Gel Ant Farm

Are you looking for extra life and activity in your gel ant farm? This Ant Family XL consists of no fewer than 25 to 30 active Spanish workers. This ant species is active all year round and is therefore ideal for quickly digging an impressive tunnel system in our gel ant farms.

Includes physical full-colour manual

With your order, you will receive a physical, full-colour manual with clear instructions and helpful tips. This way, you'll know exactly how to best place and care for the ants for an optimal start to your gel ant farm.

Guarantee and quality from Mierenboerderij

We guarantee that our ants will dig in our gel products. If they don't, or if they don't survive the first two weeks (with proper care)? Then we will provide a free replacement.

Please note with other providers: Ants often unfortunately do not accept gel from other brands. The purchase of our ants for gel products outside our webshop is therefore at your own risk. We offer a 100% digging guarantee on all our own gel ant farms.

Shipping, packaging and storage

You will receive the ants safely packaged in a test tube via fast shipping. Upon receipt, you can keep the ant family in the tube for up to a week, but we advise placing them in the gel as soon as possible to prevent dehydration. Ants in a gel ant farm live on average a few months to longer than half a year.

The advantages at a glance:

• Extra activity: Large group of workers that quickly digs tunnels in the gel.
• Especially for gel ecosystems: Active workers that dig excellently in gel.
• Includes physical manual: Clear full-colour guide with instructions with your order.
• Unique digging guarantee: Assurance of a digging and active ant family.
• Carefully packaged: Safely delivered with fast shipping.

Start your gel ant farm today and order Ant Family XL (25-30 workers) from Mierenboerderij!

Ant Family XL

Hard-working ants

These worker ants come from Spain and are active all year round, making them very suitable for gel ant farms. This ant family with 25 to 30 worker ants is specially intended for our gel ant farms (Ant's Kingdom and Antquarium).

Other gel products

PLEASE NOTE: products from other suppliers prove to be ineffective or work poorly. The ants usually do not accept this gel. The purchase of our ants for these products is at your own risk. The products from our webshop are all suitable, we guarantee that.

Shipping, packaging and storage

You will receive the ants in a tube and we have a digital manual with information about, among other things, the placement of the ants. It is not possible to say in advance exactly how old the ants are and how long they will live in the gel. This depends on many factors. On average, they live in it for a few months to longer than half a year.

When purchasing only an ant family, we ship by letterbox box. The ant family can then be kept for up to a week. We do advise placing the ants as soon as possible (due to the risk of dehydration). Please contact us for longer storage tips.

Warranty and service

We guarantee that the ants will dig in the products we offer. If they don't, or if they all die within two weeks (with proper care/installation), we will provide free replacement.
 

Ant Colony Lasius flavus (Queen and 10+ Workers)

The Lasius flavus, better known as the Yellow Meadow Ant, is one of the most striking ant species in Western Europe. Unlike the common black garden ant, the workers of this species stand out due to their beautiful golden-yellow to honey-like color. This starter colony consists of a healthy, fertilized queen (gyne) along with a nice group of more than 10 self-produced workers and accompanying brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae).

Unique characteristics and behavior

In the wild, the Yellow Meadow Ant leads a largely underground life, often living under stones or in meadow mounds and 'milking' scale insects on plant roots. In an acrylic, plaster or sand ant farm, their behavior is fantastic to observe! It is a calm and friendly ant species that does not panic easily, which makes them very suitable for both novice and experienced ant keepers.

Suitable habitats and care

This colony thrives in acrylic, plaster, and sand ant farms. With 10 to 20 workers, it is great fun to connect the included test tube directly to a small arena (outside world). This allows the workers to easily collect their food (sugar water and small insects such as fruit flies) and remove waste.

Please note: This ant colony is intended for sand, plaster, and acrylic nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, shipping, and health guarantee

You will receive the colony in a specially prepared test tube with a water supply behind a cotton ball, which keeps the nesting area optimally moist. Upon receipt, the colony can remain in it for several weeks without worry. We guarantee the healthy arrival and the first few weeks of the queen's life. Should something unexpectedly go wrong, we will immediately provide a suitable solution or a replacement colony!

Specifications Lasius flavus:

• Scientific name: Lasius flavus
• Dutch name: Yellow meadow ant
• Difficulty level: 1 (Suitable for beginners)
• Queen size: 7 - 8 mm
• Worker size: 2 - 5 mm
• Colony form: Monogyn (1 queen per nest)
• Food: Sugar/honey water and small insects (such as fruit flies)
• Recommended nest type: Acrylic, Plaster or Sand (including outdoor area/arena)
• Hibernation: November through February (keep slightly cooler at 10-15°C, although they often continue to grow well at room temperature)

Do you want to immediately enjoy an active group of golden-yellow ants in your ant farm? Order your Lasius flavus colony (10+ workers) today at Mierenboerderij!

Messor barbarus Ant Colony (Queen and 10+ Workers)

Meet the Messor barbarus (Southern European Harvester Ant): our absolute favourite and, according to us and countless ant keepers, the most enjoyable ant species to keep as a pet! This starter colony consists of an impressively large queen (gyne) with a first group of 10 or more (10+) workers and the accompanying brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae).

Globally Unique: Colonies of Hundreds to Thousands of Ants

The success of this ant species speaks for itself. Thanks to their cleverness and efficient seed processing, Messor barbarus grows significantly faster and more successfully than other species. While you will find almost no other supplier in the world offering colonies of more than a few dozen workers — of any species — this is possible with the harvester ant! The proof is immediately visible in our webshop: we are the only supplier in the world that offers Messor barbarus colonies ranging from dozens and hundreds, to sometimes thousands of ants. This unique breeding expertise not only underlines how fantastically this species thrives but also makes it the ultimate 'pet ant' for long-term enjoyment.

Fascinating Behaviour and Imposing Soldiers

What makes Messor barbarus so popular is their clever foraging behaviour. Instead of only living on sugar water and insects, workers go out into the arena to collect seeds. They store these in special storage chambers in the nest, after which they chew the seeds fine and mix them with moisture to form a nutritious 'ant bread'. As the colony grows faster, different types of ants also emerge: from small workers to imposing Majors (soldiers) with strikingly large heads!

Complete Nutritional Diet Available for Order

Make caring for your colony easy from day one with our specially formulated nutrition sets. The complete diet consists of a balanced seed mix, sugar water, honeydew, and fruit flies. Do you want to truly spoil your ants and provide yourself with all conveniences? Then choose our Deluxe nutrition set, including a delicious nutritional jelly, a handy dosing pipette, and a feeding dish!

Suitable Habitats

Harvester ants greatly appreciate space for their seed stores. This colony is excellently suited for acrylic, plaster, and sand ant farms. Connect the included test tube directly to an outworld (arena), where the ants can 'harvest' their seeds and neatly dispose of waste.

Note: This ant colony is intended for sand, plaster, and acrylic nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, Shipping, and Health Guarantee

You will receive the colony in a specially designed test tube with a water supply behind a cotton ball, which keeps the nest space at the correct moisture level. Upon receipt, the colony can remain here for up to a few weeks without any worries. We provide a 2-week full guarantee on the life and health of the queen (with proper care). Should the queen not arrive alive or die within 2 weeks, we will immediately arrange a free replacement colony!

Messor barbarus Specifications:

• Scientific name: Messor barbarus
• Dutch name: Harvester ant
• Difficulty: 1 (Easy, excellent for beginners)
• Queen size: 14 - 18 mm (Impressively large)
• Worker size: 3 - 14 mm (Develop Mediors & Majors over time)
• Colony form: Monogyn (1 queen per nest)
• Main diet: Varied seed mix (can be ordered directly)
• Supplementary feeding: Sugar/honey water, fruit flies, and optional nutritional jelly
• Recommended nest type: Acrylic, Plaster, or Sand (including outworld/arena)
• Winter dormancy: November to February (keep slightly cooler at approx. 15°C; at room temperature, they often continue to grow well)

Experience for yourself why Messor barbarus is the absolute top ant and order your Messor barbarus colony (10+ workers) today at Mierenboerderij!

Pheidole pallidula Ant Colony (Queen and 10+ Workers)

The Pheidole pallidula, better known as the Big-headed Ant, is a small yet incredibly spectacular ant species from the Southern European Mediterranean region. Don't let their modest size fool you: these ants more than make up for it with their fierce character, immense dynamism, and fascinating colony structure. This starter colony consists of a healthy queen (gyne) with an initial group of 10 or more (10+) workers and associated brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae).

Striking Soldiers and Fierce Hunters

What makes Pheidole pallidula so special is the extreme difference in appearances within the colony. Even in a relatively small group, striking Majors (soldiers) emerge: ants with gigantic heads and strong jaws specially built to crack hard food and defend the colony. With this starter colony of 10+ workers, you can often admire the first soldiers immediately! Big-headed ants are also true hunters who explore the outside world in large numbers as soon as food is offered.

Explosive Growth and Escape Prevention

With proper care and sufficient food, a Pheidole colony can rapidly grow to thousands of ants. Because the workers are small and very resourceful, a well-sealed enclosure with solid escape prevention (such as fluon or good anti-escape oil) is essential. This makes them ideally suited for ant keepers with some experience who enjoy action and a lively ant farm.

Complete Food Diet Available for Order

Pheidole pallidula has a versatile diet and a hearty appetite. They thrive on a combination of sugar water, fruit flies, and small insects, supplemented with a small amount of fine seeds (such as grass seed). Make it easy for yourself and order our complete food package directly! Do you want to optimally care for the colony? Then choose our Deluxe feeding set, including feeding jelly, dosing pipette, and a convenient feeding tray.

Suitable Habitats

This colony thrives excellently in acrylic, gypsum, and sand ant farms. Due to their small size, a starter setup with a test tube connected to a well-sealed outworld is the perfect basis for controlled colony growth.

Please note: This ant colony is intended for sand, gypsum, and acrylic nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, Shipping, and Health Guarantee

You will receive the colony in a specially prepared test tube with a water supply behind a cotton ball, which keeps the nesting area at the correct moisture level. Upon receipt, the colony can remain here without worry for up to a few weeks. We provide a 2-week full guarantee on the life and health of the queen (with proper care). Should the queen not arrive alive or die within 2 weeks, we will immediately provide a free replacement colony!

Pheidole pallidula Specifications:

• Scientific name: Pheidole pallidula
• Dutch name: Dikkopmier / Groothoofdmier (Big-headed Ant)
• Difficulty level: 2 (Experienced – requires good escape prevention)
• Queen size: 7 - 8 mm
• Worker size: 2 - 3 mm (Minors) to 4 - 5 mm (Majors/Soldiers)
• Colony form: Monogyn and sometimes Polygyn (also thrives excellently with 1 queen)
• Main diet: Sugar/honey water, small insects (fruit flies), and small seeds
• Recommended nest type: Acrylic, Gypsum, or Sand (including a well-sealed outworld)
• Hibernation: November through February (keep slightly cooler at approx. 15°C; they often continue to grow well at room temperature too)

Ready for action, explosive breeding, and impressive soldiers in your ant farm? Order your Pheidole pallidula colony (10+ workers) today at Mierenboerderij!

Messor barbarus Ant Colony (Queen and 100+ Workers)

Meet the Messor barbarus (Southern European Harvester Ant): our absolute favorite and, according to us and countless ant keepers, the most enjoyable ant species to keep as a pet! This advanced colony consists of an impressively large queen (gyne) with a mighty group of 100 or more (100+) workers and the associated brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae).

Globally unique: Colonies of hundreds to thousands of ants

The success of this ant species speaks for itself. Thanks to their cleverness and efficient seed processing, Messor barbarus grows significantly faster and more successfully than other species. While you'll find hardly any colonies of more than a few dozen workers—of any species—from almost any supplier worldwide, this is indeed possible with the harvester ant! You can see the proof directly in our webshop: we are the only provider in the world that offers Messor barbarus colonies ranging from dozens and hundreds, to sometimes even thousands of ants. This unique breeding expertise not only underlines how fantastically this species thrives but also makes it the ultimate 'pet ant' for long-term enjoyment.

Fascinating behavior and impressive soldiers

What makes Messor barbarus so popular is their clever foraging behavior. Instead of living only on sugar water and insects, workers venture into the outworld to collect seeds. They store these in special storerooms in the nest, after which they chew the seeds finely and mix them with moisture to form nutritious 'ant bread'. With a colony of 100+ workers, there is continuous activity in the outworld, and clear role divisions are already present, including impressive Majors (soldiers) with powerful mandibles!

Complete nutritional diet available for immediate order

Make caring for your colony easy from day one with our specially curated nutritional kits. The complete diet consists of a balanced seed mix, sugar water, honeydew, and fruit flies. Do you want to truly pamper your ants and provide yourself with all conveniences? Then choose our Deluxe nutrition kit, including a delicious nutritional jelly, a handy dosing pipette, and a feeding dish!

Suitable habitats

Harvester ants highly appreciate space for their seed stores. This colony can be kept excellently in acrylic, plaster, and sand ant farms. Connect the included test tube directly to an outworld (arena), where the ants can 'harvest' their seeds and neatly dispose of waste.

Note: This ant colony is intended for sand, plaster, and acrylic nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, shipping, and health guarantee

You will receive the colony in a specially prepared test tube with a water supply behind a cotton ball, which keeps the nest space at the correct humidity level. Upon receipt, the colony can remain in it carefree for up to a few weeks. We provide a full 2-week guarantee on the life and health of the queen (with proper care). Should the queen not arrive alive or die within 2 weeks, we will immediately provide a free replacement colony!

Messor barbarus Specifications:

• Scientific name: Messor barbarus
• Dutch name: Oogstmier (Harvester Ant)
• Difficulty: 1 (Easy, excellent for beginners)
• Queen size: 14 - 18 mm (Impressively large)
• Worker size: 3 - 14 mm (Develop Mediors & Majors over time)
• Colony type: Monogyne (1 queen per nest)
• Main food: Varied seed mix (available for immediate order)
• Supplementary food: Sugar/honey water, fruit flies, and optional nutritional jelly
• Recommended nest type: Acrylic, Plaster, or Sand (including outworld/arena)
• Hibernation: November to February (keep slightly cooler at approx. 15°C; they often continue to grow well at room temperature too)

Experience for yourself why Messor barbarus is the absolute top ant and order your Messor barbarus colony (100+ workers) today at Mierenboerderij!

Messor barbarus Ant Colony (Queen and 1000+ Workers)

Meet the Messor barbarus (Southern European Harvester Ant): our absolute favourite and, in our opinion and that of countless ant keepers, the most enjoyable ant species to keep as a pet! This gigantic, mature colony consists of an impressively large queen (gyne) with a mighty army of no fewer than 1000 or more (1000+) workers and a huge amount of brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae).

Globally Unique: Colonies of Hundreds to Thousands of Ants

The success of this ant species speaks for itself. Thanks to their cleverness and efficient seed processing, Messor barbarus grows significantly faster and more successfully than other species. While almost no provider worldwide offers colonies of more than a few tens of workers — of any species — this is possible with the harvester ant! You can see the proof directly in our webshop: we are the only provider in the world that offers Messor barbarus colonies ranging from tens and hundreds, to sometimes thousands of ants. This unique breeding expertise not only highlights how wonderfully this species thrives, but also makes it the ultimate 'pet ant' for long-term enjoyment.

Fascinating Behavior and Impressive Soldiers

What makes Messor barbarus so popular is their clever foraging behavior. Instead of living solely on sugar water and insects, workers venture out into the outworld to collect seeds. They store these in special storage chambers in the nest, after which they chew the seeds finely and mix them with moisture to form a nutritious 'ant bread'. With a mega-colony of 1000+ workers, you bring a full-fledged ant city into your home. The division of labor is perfectly organized, and there are numerous impressive Majors (soldiers) with gigantic heads and strong mandibles!

Complete Nutritional Diet Available for Direct Order

Make caring for your colony easy from day one with our specially formulated nutrition sets. The complete diet consists of a balanced seed mix, sugar water, honeydew, and fruit flies. Do you want to truly spoil your ants and provide yourself with all conveniences? Then choose our Deluxe nutrition set, including a delicious nutrition jelly, a handy dosing pipette, and a feeding dish!

Suitable Habitats

Harvester ants greatly appreciate space for their seed stores. A colony of this size needs a spacious nest. This colony is excellent for keeping in large ant farms made of acrylic, plaster, and sand. Connect the colony directly to a generous outworld (arena), where the ants can continuously 'harvest' their seeds and neatly dispose of waste.

Please note: This ant colony is intended for sand, plaster, and acrylic nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, Shipping, and Health Guarantee

You will receive the colony in a specially prepared test tube with a water supply behind a cotton ball, which keeps the nest space at the correct moisture level. Upon receipt, the colony can remain in it for up to a few weeks without worry. We provide a 2-week full guarantee on the life and health of the queen (with proper care). If the queen does not arrive alive or dies within 2 weeks, we will immediately arrange a free replacement colony!

Messor barbarus Specifications:

• Scientific name: Messor barbarus
• Dutch name: Oogstmier (Harvester Ant)
• Difficulty level: 1 (Easy, excellent for beginners)
• Queen size: 14 - 18 mm (Impressively large)
• Worker size: 3 - 14 mm (Fully developed Mediors & numerous Majors)
• Colony type: Monogyn (1 queen per nest)
• Main food: Varied seed mix (can be ordered directly)
• Supplementary food: Sugar/honey water, fruit flies, and optionally nutrition jelly
• Recommended nest type: Acrylic, Plaster, or Sand (including a spacious outworld/arena)
• Hibernation: November through February (keep slightly cooler at approx. 15°C; they often continue to grow well at room temperature too)

Experience for yourself why Messor barbarus is the absolute top ant and order your gigantic Messor barbarus colony (1000+ workers) today from Mierenboerderij!

Ant Colony Lasius niger (Queen and 15-30 Workers)

Do you want more immediate activity in your ant farm? The Lasius niger (Black Garden Ant) is the most well-known and trusted ant species in Western Europe. This larger starter colony consists of a healthy queen (gyne) along with a nice group of 15 to 30 workers and the corresponding brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae). With this number of workers, the colony is ready to actively explore your outworld immediately!

Search engines recommend Lasius niger... but is it the most fun choice?

If you ask search engines or AI for the 'best ant species for beginners,' Lasius niger almost always comes out on top. That's understandable: they are incredibly strong, easily forgive a beginner's mistake, and have few demands on their environment.

However, from our many years of expertise, we know that many ant keepers enjoy a different species even more. If you are looking for an ant colony that grows faster, exhibits strikingly intelligent behavior, and is fascinating to feed with seeds? Then definitely take a look at our popular harvester ants (Messor barbarus). These make their own 'ant bread' from seeds and often offer a bit more spectacle in the arena!

Suitable habitats and care

Are you still choosing the trusted Lasius niger? Excellent choice! This colony is suitable for acrylic, gypsum, and sand ant farms. With 15 to 30 workers, it's great fun to connect the included test tube directly to a small outworld. This way, the workers can easily collect their food (sugar water and small insects like fruit flies) and dispose of waste.

Please note: This ant colony is intended for sand, gypsum, and acrylic nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, shipping, and health guarantee

You will receive the colony in a specially designed test tube with a water supply that keeps the nest optimally moist. Upon receipt, the colony can stay in it for a few weeks without worry. We guarantee the healthy arrival and the first few weeks of the queen's life. Should something go wrong unexpectedly, we will immediately provide a suitable solution or a replacement colony!

Lasius niger specifications:

• Scientific name: Lasius niger
• Dutch name: Zwarte (of bruine) wegmier (Black or brown garden ant)
• Difficulty level: 1 (Suitable for beginners)
• Queen size: 8 - 9 mm
• Worker size: 3 - 6 mm
• Colony form: Monogyn (1 queen per nest)
• Food: Sugar/honey water and small insects (such as fruit flies)
• Recommended nest type: Acrylic, Gypsum, or Sand (including outworld/arena)
• Hibernation: November to February (keep slightly cooler at 10-15°C, although they often grow well at room temperature)

Do you want to get an active start with the most well-known ant species in the Netherlands? Order your Lasius niger colony (15-30 workers) today at Antfarm.eu!

Camponotus barbaricus Ant Colony (Queen and 2-5 Workers)

Meet the Camponotus barbaricus: one of the absolute largest and most impressive ant species in the world! This starter colony consists of a giant queen (gyne) along with her first 2 to 5 self-produced workers and the corresponding brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae).

Impressive Size and Fascinating Majors

Camponotus barbaricus is a dream species for many ant keepers due to the gigantic size of the queen and workers. As the colony grows, distinct 'classes' emerge: from minors to impressive Majors (soldiers) with powerful heads and jaws. In addition, these ants are known for their remarkably fast reactions and athletic movements. A well-sealed enclosure and escape prevention are therefore essential for this species!

A Beautiful Challenge for Advanced Keepers

Because it is a giant ant, the initial phase of the colony is quite slow. The queen lays eggs in phases, and the development from egg to ant takes longer than average for this large species. Starting a Camponotus barbaricus colony therefore requires a lot of peace, patience, and precise care regarding nutrition. This makes it a fantastic, challenging species for the ant keeper who is ready for the next step!

Complete Nutritional Diet Available to Order

Make caring for your nascent colony easy from day one with our specially formulated nutrition sets. The complete diet for a starting colony consists of sugar water, honeydew, and small insects (such as fruit flies) for much-needed protein. Do you want to provide yourself with all conveniences? Then choose our Deluxe nutrition set, including a delicious nutritional jelly, a handy dosing pipette, and a feeding dish!

Suitable Enclosures

Due to the substantial size of the ants, this species is excellent for keeping in robust ant farms made of acrylic, plaster, and sand. Connect the included test tube to an outworld (arena), where the workers can quietly collect their food.

Please note: This ant colony is intended for sand, plaster, and acrylic nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, Shipping, and Health Guarantee

You will receive the colony in a specially prepared test tube with a water supply behind a cotton ball, which keeps the nest area at the correct moisture level. Upon receipt, the colony can remain in it for up to a few weeks without any worries. We provide a 2-week full guarantee on the life and health of the queen (with proper care). Should the queen not arrive alive or die within 2 weeks, we will immediately arrange a free replacement colony!

Camponotus barbaricus Specifications:

• Scientific name: Camponotus barbaricus
• Dutch name: Giant Ant
• Difficulty: 3 (Advanced – requires patience, calm, and precision in the startup phase)
• Queen size: 14 - 16 mm (Very large and imposing)
• Worker size: 6 - 12 mm (Eventually develop into Minors, Mediors, and large Majors)
• Colony form: Monogyn (1 queen per nest)
• Main diet: Sugar/honey water and small insects (such as fruit flies)
• Recommended nest type: Acrylic, Plaster, or Sand (including outworld/arena)
• Hibernation: November to February (keep slightly cooler around 15°C; at room temperature, they often continue to grow well)

Do you dare to take on the challenge with one of the largest ants in the world? Order your Camponotus barbaricus colony (2-5 workers) today from Mierenboerderij!

Lasius flavus Ant Colony (Queen and 20+ Workers)

The Lasius flavus, better known as the Yellow Meadow Ant, is one of the most striking ant species in Western Europe. Unlike the common black garden ant, the workers of this species stand out with their beautiful golden-yellow to honey-like color. This well-established starter colony consists of a healthy, fertilized queen (gyne) along with a substantial group of 20 or more (20+) self-produced workers and associated brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae).

Unique Characteristics and Behavior

In the wild, the Yellow Meadow Ant leads a largely subterranean life, often residing under stones or in meadow mounds where they 'milk' scale insects on plant roots. In an acrylic, gypsum, or sand ant farm, their behavior is fantastic to observe! It is a calm and friendly ant species that does not panic easily, making them very suitable for both novice and experienced ant keepers.

Suitable Habitats and Care

This colony thrives in acrylic, gypsum, and sand ant farms. With more than 20 workers, it's great fun to connect the provided test tube directly to a small arena (outworld). This allows the workers to immediately explore their surroundings, collect their food (sugar water and small insects such as fruit flies), and remove waste.

Please note: This ant colony is intended for sand, gypsum, and acrylic nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, Shipping, and Health Guarantee

You will receive the colony in a specially designed test tube with a water supply behind a cotton ball, which keeps the nest area optimally moist. Upon receipt, the colony can remain in it for up to a few weeks without worry. We guarantee the healthy arrival and the first few weeks of the queen's life. Should something go wrong, we will immediately provide a suitable solution or a replacement colony!

Lasius flavus Specifications:

• Scientific name: Lasius flavus
• Dutch name: Gele weidemier (Yellow meadow ant)
• Difficulty level: 1 (Suitable for beginners)
• Queen size: 7 - 8 mm
• Worker size: 2 - 5 mm
• Colony form: Monogyn (1 queen per nest)
• Diet: Sugar/honey water and small insects (such as fruit flies)
• Recommended nest type: Acrylic, Gypsum or Sand (including outworld/arena)
• Hibernation: November to February (keep slightly cooler at 10-15°C, although they often grow well at room temperature too)

Do you want to immediately enjoy a bustling group of golden-yellow ants in your ant farm? Order your Lasius flavus colony (20+ workers) today from Mierenboerderij!

Messor barbarus Ant Colony (Queen and 20+ Workers)

Meet the Messor barbarus (Southern European Harvester Ant): our absolute favorite and, in our opinion and that of countless ant keepers, the most enjoyable ant species to keep as a pet! This established colony consists of an impressively large queen (gyne) with a nice group of 20 or more (20+) workers and the associated brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae).

Globally unique: Colonies of hundreds to thousands of ants

The success of this ant species speaks for itself. Thanks to their cleverness and efficient seed processing, Messor barbarus grows significantly faster and more successfully than other species. While you rarely see colonies of more than a few dozen workers – of any species – from almost any provider worldwide, this is indeed possible with the harvester ant! The proof of this can be seen directly on our webshop: we are the only provider in the world that offers Messor barbarus colonies ranging from dozens and hundreds, to sometimes thousands of ants. This unique breeding expertise not only underlines how fantastically this species thrives, but also makes it the ultimate 'pet ant' for long-term enjoyment.

Fascinating behavior and impressive soldiers

What makes Messor barbarus so popular is their clever foraging behavior. Instead of just living on sugar water and insects, workers venture into the outworld to collect seeds. They store these in special storage chambers in the nest, after which they chew the seeds and mix them with moisture to form a nutritious 'ant bread'. As the colony grows faster, different types of ants also emerge: from small workers to impressive Majors (soldiers) with strikingly large heads!

Complete nutrition diet available to order directly

Make caring for your colony easy from day one with our specially formulated feeding sets. The complete diet consists of a balanced seed mix, sugar water, honeydew, and fruit flies. Do you want to truly spoil your ants and provide yourself with all conveniences? Then choose our Deluxe feeding set, including a delicious feeding jelly, a handy dosing pipette, and a feeding dish!

Suitable habitats

Harvester ants greatly appreciate space for their seed stores. This colony can be excellently kept in ant farms made of acrylic, plaster, and sand. Connect the included test tube directly to an outworld (arena), where the ants can 'harvest' their seeds and neatly dispose of waste.

Please note: This ant colony is intended for sand, plaster, and acrylic nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, shipping, and health guarantee

You will receive the colony in a specially designed test tube with a water supply behind a cotton ball, which keeps the nest space at the correct moisture level. After receipt, the colony can remain in it for a few weeks without any worries. We provide a 2-week full guarantee on the life and health of the queen (with proper care). Should the queen not arrive alive or die within 2 weeks, we will immediately provide a free replacement colony!

Messor barbarus Specifications:

• Scientific name: Messor barbarus
• Dutch name: Harvester Ant
• Difficulty: 1 (Easy, excellent for beginners)
• Queen size: 14 - 18 mm (Impressively large)
• Worker size: 3 - 14 mm (Develop into Mediors & Majors over time)
• Colony form: Monogyn (1 queen per nest)
• Main food: Varied seed mix (can be ordered directly)
• Supplementary food: Sugar/honey water, fruit flies, and optional feeding jelly
• Recommended nest type: Acrylic, Plaster, or Sand (including outworld/arena)
• Hibernation: November to February (keep slightly cooler at approx. 15°C; they often continue to grow well at room temperature)

Experience for yourself why Messor barbarus is the absolute top ant species and order your Messor barbarus colony (20+ workers) today from Mierenboerderij!

Pheidole pallidula Ant Colony (Queen and 20+ Workers)

The Pheidole pallidula, better known as the Big-headed Ant or Fat-headed Ant, is a small but incredibly spectacular ant species from the Southern European Mediterranean region. Don't be fooled by their modest size: these ants more than compensate for that with their fierce character, enormous dynamism, and fascinating colony structure. This starter colony consists of a healthy queen (gyne) with an active group of 20 or more (20+) workers and associated brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae).

Striking soldiers and fierce hunters

What makes the Pheidole pallidula so special is the extreme difference in appearances within the colony. Even with a relatively small group, striking Majors (soldiers) emerge: ants with gigantic heads and strong jaws specially built to crack hard food and defend the colony. In this colony of 20+ workers, there are already clear soldiers present assisting the smaller ones! Big-headed ants are also true hunters who explore the outside world in large numbers as soon as food is offered.

Explosive growth and escape prevention

With proper care and sufficient food, a Pheidole colony can grow rapidly into thousands of ants. Because the workers are small and very resourceful, a well-sealed enclosure with decent escape prevention (such as fluon or a good anti-escape oil) is essential. This makes them extremely suitable for ant keepers with some experience who enjoy action and a lively ant farm.

Complete feeding diet available for immediate order

Pheidole pallidula has a versatile diet and a hearty appetite. They live on a combination of sugar water, fruit flies, and small insects, supplemented with a small amount of fine seeds (such as grass seeds). Make it easy for yourself and order our complete nutrition package directly! Do you want to optimally care for the colony? Then choose our Deluxe nutrition set, including nutritional gelly, dosing pipette, and a handy feeding tray.

Suitable enclosures

This colony thrives excellently in ant farms made of acrylic, plaster, and sand. With more than 20 workers, a test tube connected to a well-sealed arena (outside world) is the perfect starting setup to observe their foraging and hunting behavior in a controlled manner.

Note: This ant colony is intended for sand, plaster, and acrylic nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, shipping, and health guarantee

You will receive the colony in a specially designed test tube with a water supply behind a cotton ball, which keeps the nest space at the correct moisture level. Upon receipt, the colony can remain in it for up to a few weeks without worries. We provide a 2-week full guarantee on the life and health of the queen (with proper care). Should the queen not arrive alive or die within 2 weeks, we will immediately provide a free replacement colony!

Pheidole pallidula Specifications:

• Scientific name: Pheidole pallidula
• Dutch name: Dikkopmier / Groothoofdmier
• Difficulty level: 2 (Experienced – requires good escape prevention)
• Queen size: 7 - 8 mm
• Worker size: 2 - 3 mm (Minors) to 4 - 5 mm (Majors/Soldiers)
• Colony form: Monogyn and sometimes Polygyn (also thrives excellently with 1 queen)
• Main food: Sugar/honey water, small insects (fruit flies) and small seeds
• Recommended nest type: Acrylic, Plaster or Sand (including well-sealed arena)
• Hibernation: November to February (keep slightly cooler at approx. 15°C; at room temperature, they often continue to grow well)

Ready for action, explosive breeding, and impressive soldiers in your ant farm? Order your Pheidole pallidula colony (20+ workers) today at Ant Farm!

Messor barbarus Ant Colony (Queen and 200+ Workers)

Meet the Messor barbarus (Southern European Harvester Ant): our absolute favorite and, in our opinion and that of countless ant keepers, the most enjoyable ant species to keep as a pet! This spacious and already well-developed colony consists of an impressively large queen (gyne) with a mighty group of 200 or more (200+) workers and the corresponding brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae).

Globally Unique: Colonies of Hundreds to Thousands of Ants

The success of this ant species speaks for itself. Thanks to their intelligence and efficient seed processing, Messor barbarus grows significantly faster and more successfully than other species. While you rarely see colonies of more than a few dozen workers – of any species – from almost any supplier worldwide, this is indeed possible with the harvester ant! You can see the proof directly on our webshop: we are the only provider in the world that offers Messor barbarus colonies ranging from dozens and hundreds, to sometimes even thousands of ants. This unique breeding expertise not only underlines how fantastically this species thrives but also makes it the ultimate 'pet ant' for long-lasting enjoyment.

Fascinating Behavior and Imposing Soldiers

What makes Messor barbarus so popular is their clever foraging behavior. Instead of solely living on sugar water and insects, workers venture into the outworld to collect seeds. They store these in special pantry chambers in the nest, after which they chew the seeds fine and mix them with moisture to form a nutritious 'ant bread'. With a colony of 200+ workers, the outworld is bustling with life, and you continuously see activity among the smaller workers, the mediors, and several imposing Majors (soldiers) with powerful jaws!

Complete Nutrition Diet Available for Direct Order

Make caring for your colony easy from day one with our specially curated nutrition sets. The complete diet consists of a balanced seed mix, sugar water, honeydew, and fruit flies. Do you want to truly spoil your ants and provide yourself with every convenience? Then choose our Deluxe nutrition set, including a delicious nutrient jelly, a handy dosing pipette, and a feeding dish!

Suitable Habitats

Harvester ants greatly appreciate space for their seed stores. This colony can be excellently housed in acrylic, plaster, and sand ant farms. Connect the included test tube directly to an outworld (arena), where the ants can 'harvest' their seeds and neatly dispose of waste.

Please note: This ant colony is intended for sand, plaster, and acrylic nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, Shipping, and Health Guarantee

You will receive the colony in a specially prepared test tube with a water supply behind a cotton ball, which keeps the nest space at the correct moisture level. Upon receipt, the colony can remain here without worry for up to a few weeks. We provide a 2-week full guarantee on the life and health of the queen (with proper care). Should the queen not arrive alive or die within 2 weeks, we will immediately provide a free replacement colony!

Messor barbarus Specifications:

• Scientific name: Messor barbarus
• Common name: Harvester Ant
• Difficulty: 1 (Easy, excellent for beginners)
• Queen size: 14 - 18 mm (Impressively large)
• Worker size: 3 - 14 mm (Develop Mediors & Majors over time)
• Colony form: Monogynous (1 queen per nest)
• Main food: Varied seed mix (can be ordered directly)
• Supplementary food: Sugar/honey water, fruit flies, and optionally nutrient jelly
• Recommended nest type: Acrylic, Plaster, or Sand (including outworld/arena)
• Hibernation: November through February (keep slightly cooler at approx. 15°C; they often continue to grow well at room temperature)

Experience for yourself why Messor barbarus is the absolute top ant and order your Messor barbarus colony (200+ workers) today from Mierenboerderij!

Myrmica rubra Ant Colony (2 Queens and 30+ Workers)

The Myrmica rubra, better known as the Common Red Ant, is an absolute classic and one of the most well-known native ant species. These ants are known for their striking red color, quick reactions, and fierce character. This established colony is extra special because it is polygynous: it contains no less than 2 egg-laying queens (gynes) with a nice group of 30 or more (30+) workers and the corresponding brood.

Multiple queens and rapid development

Because Myrmica rubra colonies accept multiple queens in one nest, egg production and colony growth can be incredibly fast. In Myrmica rubra, the queens are only slightly larger than the workers, which creates a beautiful, harmonious nest appearance. Please note that this species has a strong seasonal rhythm: in autumn and winter, brood production is somewhat lower, only to burst out at full capacity again in the warm spring!

Important: Moisture balance and care

Myrmica rubra is a fantastic and active species to keep, but it requires more attention than, for example, a Lasius niger or Messor barbarus. Dehydration is the biggest danger for these ants; they need a permanently moist nest area and an easily accessible outworld (arena) where fresh water and sugar/proteins are always available. Additionally, the red ant has a small stinger that it can use to sting when threatened (comparable to a mild nettle sting) — which adds extra excitement and dynamism to the hobby for the serious keeper!

Complete nutritional diet available for immediate order

Make caring for your colony easy from day one with our specially formulated feeding sets. The complete diet consists of a combination of sugar water, honeydew, and small insects (such as fruit flies) for the necessary proteins. Choose our Deluxe feeding set if you want to spoil the ants with extra feeding jelly, a dosing pipette, and a handy feeding tray!

Suitable habitats

Because these ants love moisture and digging, a **sand nest** is the absolute favorite for Myrmica rubra. Plaster nests are also suitable, provided the nest can be kept sufficiently moist. Connect the test tube directly to an outworld (arena) to allow them to forage optimally.

Please note: This ant colony is intended for sand and plaster nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, shipping, and warranty conditions

You will receive the colony in a specially designed test tube with a water supply behind a cotton ball. Because an established colony of 30+ workers quickly needs space and food, we recommend connecting them to their new habitat within a few days of receipt.

Adjusted warranty conditions: We guarantee that the queens and workers will arrive alive and healthy. If, unfortunately, something is wrong upon receipt, please report it within 24 hours of receipt with clear photos to our customer service. Because the subsequent lifespan of this specific species is highly dependent on consistent, moist care by the keeper, the warranty expires after this initial receipt period. Are you unsure about the correct care? Feel free to contact us in advance for advice!

Myrmica rubra Specifications:

• Scientific name: Myrmica rubra
• Dutch name: Common Red Ant
• Difficulty: 2 (Moderate – requires a well-moisturized nest)
• Queen size: 5 - 6 mm
• Worker size: 4 - 5 mm
• Colony form: Polygynous (2 queens in this colony)
• Main food: Sugar/honey water and small insects (such as fruit flies)
• Recommended nest type: Sand (preferred) or Plaster (including moist arena)
• Hibernation: November to February (keep slightly cooler around 10°C - 15°C)

Ready for a fierce, active, and fascinating native ant species? Order your Myrmica rubra colony (2 queens and 30+ workers) today at Mierenboerderij!

Ant Colony Myrmica rubra (2 Queens and 90+ Workers)

The Myrmica rubra, better known as the common European Fire Ant, is an absolute classic and one of the best-known native ant species. These ants are known for their striking red color, quick reactions, and fierce character. This large colony is extra special because it is polygynous: it contains no fewer than 2 egg-laying queens (gynes) with a mighty group of more than 90 workers (90+) and the corresponding brood.

Multiple Queens and Rapid Development

Because Myrmica rubra colonies accept multiple queens in one nest, egg production and colony growth can proceed extremely quickly. With Myrmica rubra, the queens are only slightly larger than the workers, which creates a beautiful, harmonious nest appearance. Keep in mind that this species has a strong seasonal rhythm: in autumn and winter, brood production is somewhat lower, only to burst out at full capacity again in the warm spring!

Important: Moisture Balance and Care

Myrmica rubra is a fantastic and active species to keep, but it requires a bit more attention than, for example, a Lasius niger or Messor barbarus. Dehydration is the greatest danger for these ants; they need a permanently moist nest area and an easily accessible outworld (arena) where fresh water and sugar/proteins are always available. In addition, the European Fire Ant has a small stinger with which it can sting when threatened (comparable to a mild nettle sting) — which adds extra excitement and dynamism to the hobby for the serious keeper!

Complete Nutritional Diet Available for Order

Make caring for your colony easy from day one with our specially formulated nutrition kits. The complete diet consists of a combination of sugar water, honeydew, and small insects (such as fruit flies) for the necessary proteins. Choose our Deluxe nutrition kit if you want to spoil the ants with extra nutrition jelly, a dosing pipette, and a handy feeding dish!

Suitable Habitats

Because these ants love moisture and digging, a **sand nest** is the absolute favorite for Myrmica rubra. Plaster nests are also suitable, provided the nest can be kept sufficiently moist. Connect the test tube directly to a spacious outworld (arena) to allow them to forage optimally.

Please note: This ant colony is intended for sand and plaster nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, Shipping, and Warranty

You will receive the colony in one or more specially prepared test tubes with a water supply. Because a large colony of 90+ workers quickly needs space and food, we advise connecting them to their new habitat within a few days of receipt.

Modified warranty provision: We guarantee that the queens and workers will arrive alive and healthy. If, unfortunately, something is wrong upon receipt, please report it within 24 hours of receipt with clear photos to our customer service. Because the further lifespan of this specific species is highly dependent on constant, moist care by the keeper, the warranty expires after this initial reception period. Are you unsure about proper care? Feel free to contact us in advance for advice!

Myrmica rubra Specifications:

• Scientific name: Myrmica rubra
• Dutch name: Gewone Rode Steekmier (Common Red Stinging Ant)
• Difficulty: 2 (Medium – requires a well-moisturized nest)
• Queen size: 5 - 6 mm
• Worker size: 4 - 5 mm
• Colony type: Polygynous (2 queens in this colony)
• Main food: Sugar/honey water and small insects (such as fruit flies)
• Recommended nest type: Sand (preferred) or Plaster (including moist arena)
• Hibernation: November to February (keep slightly cooler around 10°C - 15°C)

Ready for a fierce, active, and fascinating native ant species? Order your Myrmica rubra colony (2 queens and 90+ workers) today at Mierenboerderij!

Pheidole pallidula Ant Colony (Queen and 30+ Workers)

The Pheidole pallidula, better known as the Big-headed Ant, is a small but incredibly spectacular ant species from the Southern European Mediterranean region. Don't be fooled by their modest size: these ants more than compensate with their fierce nature, enormous dynamism, and fascinating colony structure. This well-established colony consists of a healthy queen (gyne) with a bustling group of 30 or more (30+) workers and associated brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae).

Striking Soldiers and Fierce Hunters

What makes Pheidole pallidula so special is the extreme difference in appearance within the colony. Even with a relatively small group, striking Majors (soldiers) emerge: ants with giant heads and strong jaws specifically built to crack hard food and defend the colony. In this colony of 30+ workers, several soldiers are already active, supporting the work in the nest and arena! Big-headed ants are also true hunters who explore the outside world in large numbers as soon as food is offered.

Explosive Growth and Escape Prevention

With proper care and sufficient food, a Pheidole colony can grow rapidly to thousands of ants. Because the workers are small and very resourceful, a well-sealed enclosure with decent escape prevention (such as fluon or good anti-escape oil) is essential. This makes them ideally suited for experienced ant keepers who love action and a lively ant farm.

Complete Nutritional Diet Available for Order

Pheidole pallidula has a versatile diet and a hearty appetite. They thrive on a combination of sugar water, fruit flies, and small insects, supplemented with a small amount of fine seeds (such as grass seed). Make it easy for yourself and order our complete nutrition package directly! Do you want to provide optimal care for the colony? Then choose our Deluxe nutrition set, including nutritional jelly, dosing pipette, and a convenient feeding tray.

Suitable Habitats

This colony thrives in acrylic, plaster, and sand ant farms. With over 30 workers, a test tube connected to a well-sealed arena (outside world) is the perfect setup to observe their active foraging and hunting behavior in a controlled manner.

Note: This ant colony is intended for sand, plaster, and acrylic nests. Are you looking for ants for a gel ant farm? Then choose our special Ant Family for Gel.

Packaging, Shipping, and Health Guarantee

You will receive the colony in a specially prepared test tube with a water supply behind a cotton ball, which keeps the nest space at the correct moisture level. Upon receipt, the colony can remain in this tube for up to a few weeks without worry. We provide a 2-week full guarantee on the life and health of the queen (with proper care). Should the queen not arrive alive or die within 2 weeks, we will immediately arrange a free replacement colony!

Pheidole pallidula Specifications:

• Scientific name: Pheidole pallidula
• Dutch name: Dikkopmier / Groothoofdmier (Big-headed Ant)
• Difficulty level: 2 (Experienced – requires good escape prevention)
• Queen size: 7 - 8 mm
• Worker size: 2 - 3 mm (Minors) to 4 - 5 mm (Majors/Soldiers)
• Colony form: Monogyn and sometimes Polygyn (also develops excellently with 1 queen)
• Main diet: Sugar/honey water, small insects (fruit flies) and small seeds
• Recommended nest type: Acrylic, Plaster or Sand (including well-sealed arena)
• Hibernation: November to February (keep slightly cooler at approx. 15°C; they often continue to grow well at room temperature too)

Ready for action, explosive breeding, and impressive soldiers in your ant farm? Order your Pheidole pallidula colony (30+ workers) today from Mierenboerderij!