Ant Colony Lasius flavus (Queen and 5-10 Workers)

The Lasius flavus, better known as the Yellow Meadow Ant, is one of the most striking ant species in Western Europe. Unlike the well-known black garden ant, the workers of this species stand out due to their beautiful yellow-golden to honey-like color. This starter colony consists of a healthy, fertilized queen (gyne) along with her first 5 to 10 self-bred workers and brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae).

Unique characteristics and behavior

In nature, the Yellow Meadow Ant leads a largely subterranean life, often living under stones or in meadow mounds and 'milking' aphids 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, making them very suitable for both beginner and experienced ant keepers.

Suitable habitats and care

This colony thrives in acrylic, plaster, and sand ant farms. Initially, the included test tube provides ample space for the colony. We recommend connecting the tube to a small arena (outer world) so that the workers can easily collect their food (sugar water and small insects such as fruit flies).

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 up to a few weeks without any problems. 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: Monogynous (1 queen per nest)
• Diet: Sugar/honey water and small insects (such as fruit flies)
• Recommended nest type: Acrylic, Plaster or Sand (including outer world/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 enjoy this special golden-yellow ant species in your ant farm? Order your Lasius flavus colony (5-10 workers) today at Mierenboerderij!

Ant colony 5-15 Lasius niger (Queen and Workers)

Lasius niger, better known as the Black Garden Ant in English, is undoubtedly the most well-known ant species in Western Europe. This colony consists of a healthy queen (gyne) along with her first 5 to 15 self-raised workers and brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae). A fantastic species for seeing up close how an ant colony develops right from the very beginning!

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 makes sense: they are incredibly hardy, easily forgive a beginner's mistake, and have few requirements for their environment.

However, based on our years of expertise, we know that many ant keepers get even more enjoyment from a different species. Are you looking for an ant colony that grows faster, displays remarkably intelligent behavior, and is fascinating to feed with seeds? Then definitely take a look at our popular harvester ants (Messor barbarus). These ants make their own 'ant bread' from seeds, are easier to raise and care for, and often offer just that little bit more spectacle in their nest and arena!

Suitable habitats and care

Have you decided to go with the trusted Lasius niger after all? Excellent choice! This colony is suitable for acrylic, plaster, and sand ant farms. In the initial phase, the included test tube provides more than enough space. However, we do recommend connecting the test tube to a small arena (outworld) so the workers can easily collect their food (sugar water and small insects like fruit flies) and remove 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 that keeps the nest optimally moist. Upon receipt, the colony can stay in this for up to a few weeks without any worries. We provide a guarantee on the safe arrival and the first few weeks of the queen's life. If something unexpectedly goes wrong, we will immediately provide a suitable solution or a replacement colony!

Specifications Lasius niger:

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

Would you like to start calmly with the most trusted ant species in the Netherlands? Order your Lasius niger colony (5-15 workers) today from Mierenboerderij!

Messor barbarus Ant Colony (Queen and 50+ Workers)

Meet the Messor barbarus (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 already beautifully developed colony consists of an impressively large queen (gyne) with a substantial group of 50 or more (50+) workers and the corresponding brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae).

Globally unique: Colonies from hundreds to thousands of ants

The success of this ant species speaks for itself. Thanks to their cleverness and efficient seed processing, the Messor barbarus grows significantly faster and more successfully than other species. While you will find almost no other supplier in the world offering colonies with more than a few dozen workers—of any species—this is precisely what you can find with the harvester ant! You'll see the proof immediately on our webshop: we are the only supplier in the world offering 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 smart foraging behavior. Instead of just living on sugar water and insects, workers venture 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'. With a size of 50+ workers, you will often already see the first larger workers and impressive Majors (soldiers) with strikingly large heads appearing!

Complete nutrition diet available for direct order

Make caring for your colony easy from day one with our specially formulated nutrition 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 equip yourself with all conveniences? Then choose our Deluxe nutrition kit, including a delicious nutritional jelly, a handy dosing pipette, and a feeding tray!

Suitable habitats

Harvester ants greatly appreciate space for their seed reserves. This colony can be excellently kept 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 remove 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 area 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). 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 level: 1 (Easy, excellent for beginners)
• Queen size: 14 - 18 mm (Impressively large)
• Worker size: 3 - 14 mm (Develop Mediors & Majors over time)
• Colony form: Monogyne (1 queen per nest)
• Main diet: Varied seed mix (available for direct order)
• Supplementary diet: Sugar/honey water, fruit flies, and optional nutritional 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 the Messor barbarus is the absolute top ant and order your Messor barbarus colony (50+ workers) today from Mierenboerderij!

Give your ants a safe feeding area with the Barn Mini Arena

Every ant colony, in addition to a safe nest, needs an outside world (arena) for foraging, eating, and dumping waste. The Barn Mini Arena is a compact and sleekly designed acrylic outdoor environment that perfectly connects to various types of ant farms. It is the ideal solution for smaller space requirements or beginner colonies.

Safe feeding and clear maintenance

Thanks to excellent accessibility and clear acrylic, you can effortlessly feed ants with sugar water, honeydew, or small food animals, without having to fear escapes. Ants naturally also use this arena as a waste disposal area, allowing you to keep the nest itself clean and hygienic by simply cleaning the outdoor environment occasionally.

Crystal-clear view of natural foraging behavior

The high-quality, transparent acrylic provides a sharp view of your colony's scouts. See how the worker ants cooperate to drag food inside and communicate about new discoveries. The arena is equipped with good ventilation for a healthy living environment.

The advantages at a glance:

• Compact & space-saving: Easily fits on any desk or in any setup.
• Crystal-clear acrylic: Provides optimal and sharp visibility of behavior outside the nest.
• Easy to expand: Quickly connects to your ant nest with standard hose connections.
• Maintenance-friendly: Makes offering food and clearing waste clear and simple.

Complete your ant setup and observe fascinating foraging behavior with the compact Barn Mini Arena!

Olive Striped Millipede (Spirostreptus sp.) – The ultimate beginner species from Tanzania!

Are you looking for a special, calm and fascinating terrarium inhabitant? The Olive Striped Millipede (Spirostreptus sp. 1) originates from the drier savanna regions of Tanzania. Thanks to its robust health, low housing requirements and tolerant nature, this species is known in the hobby as the absolute number 1 beginner millipede!

Unique Orange-Green Color Palette

This millipede is a beautiful sight to behold. Its slender body has a striking striped pattern of alternating green and orange rings. The bright orange head shield (collum), orange antennae, and many orange legs moving synchronously beneath the body add extra elegance. In male specimens, the 7th segment is noticeably thickened. They grow steadily and can eventually reach a length of 15 centimeters or more!

Calm behavior & Long lifespan

Spirostreptus sp. is a very tolerant and economical species that can live up to **5 years**. They reach sexual maturity after about 2 to 3 years. While many other millipedes constantly burrow, adult specimens of this species can regularly be admired on the substrate and climbing branches during the day!

Care & Housing

The Olive Striped Millipede places very few demands on its environment, making care very simple:

• Terrarium size: House a group in a terrarium of at least 40 x 40 x 40 cm.
• Substantial Substrate Layer: Provide a substrate layer of at least 10 cm deep (ripe forest substrate mixed with humus, rotten wood, and beech/oak leaves). This serves directly as their primary food!
• Climate: Ideal temperature is between 21 °C and 26 °C with a humidity of 60% to 80%. Cover the substrate with moss, leaves, and bark to maintain stable humidity.
• Additional Food: Supplement the substrate with pieces of vegetables, fruit (such as cucumber or apple), and a calcium source (cuttlebone) for a strong exoskeleton. Climbing branches are a must!

Key advantages at a glance:

• Beautiful Appearance: Striking orange-green rings with orange legs.
• Ultimate Beginner Species: Very robust, forgiving, and easy to keep.
• Long Lifespan: Can live up to 5 years under good conditions.
• Visible During the Day: Adult animals are regularly seen on the surface.
• Own Import/Breeding Guarantee: Healthy young animals (5-10 cm) with live-arrival guarantee.

Product specifications:

• Species: Spirostreptus sp. 'Olive Striped'
• Origin: Tanzania (Savanna)
• Size upon delivery: Approx. 5 to 10 cm (strong young animals)
• Maximum length: Approx. 15 cm+
• Ideal temperature: 21 °C to 26 °C
• Humidity: 60% - 80%
• Life expectancy: Up to 5 years

Bring this colorful primeval inhabitant into your home. Order the Olive Striped Millipede today!

Wind-Up Butterfly (Flying Toy) – A magical fluttering surprise!

Do you want to truly surprise someone or are you looking for a cheerful, active toy? This Wind-Up Butterfly is guaranteed to create astonished faces and shoulder-shaking laughter! As soon as the butterfly is released, it unexpectedly flies upwards with rapidly flapping wings and floats through the room.

### How does the flying wind-up butterfly work?

The principle is as simple as it is ingenious:

• Twist the top wings several times to wind up the built-in elastic band.
• Hold the butterfly between your fingers or place it flat between a book, invitation, or birthday card.
• As soon as the card is opened or the butterfly is released, the elastic band unwinds and the butterfly spontaneously flutters into the air!

### The ideal gift and card surprise

Thanks to its very flat design (only 0.3 cm thick), this flying butterfly is perfect for subtly slipping into a greeting card, gift wrapping, or invitation. When the recipient opens the card, a colorful butterfly suddenly flies out! An unforgettable moment for birthdays, weddings, and parties.

Key benefits at a glance:

• Real Flying Effect: Flutters surprisingly upwards as soon as it's released.
• Simple Mechanism: Works purely with a wind-up elastic band (no batteries needed).
• Perfect for Cards: Super flat design (12 x 12 x 0.3 cm), ideal as a mail surprise.
• Infinitely Reusable: Can be wound up again and again for endless fun.
• Cheerful Colors: Supplied in varied, vibrant butterfly designs.

Product specifications:

• Product: Wind-Up Butterfly / Flying Toy
• Drive: Mechanical via elastic band
• Butterfly dimensions: 12 cm long x 12 cm wide x 0.3 cm thick
• Packaging dimensions: 18 cm x 14 cm x 0.4 cm
• Designs: Colors and styles vary per delivery

Let the magic fly.

Tweezers Straight (Size M) – Indispensable precision tool for your colony

Caring for an ant colony requires precision and calm. Working in the arena with your fingers often causes unnecessary stress for the ants and can also lead to fast workers escaping. This **sturdy, straight tweezer (size M)** gives you the necessary reach and control to act quickly and subtly.

Subtle maintenance and controlled feeding

With a total length of 12 cm and a fine gripping angle of approximately 3 cm, you can easily remove dead insects, moldy remains, or waste pellets (rubbish piles) from the furthest corners of the outworld. In addition, the tweezers are ideal for precisely offering fresh fruit flies, sugar water, or seeds exactly where you want them.

Durable, sturdy, and hygienic

The tweezers feature a robust, straight design. The material is durable, dimensionally stable, and incredibly easy to clean or disinfect. An absolute must-have basic accessory for every ant keeper and insect enthusiast!

Key advantages at a glance:

• Maximum control: Makes precise work in small spaces and arenas very easy.
• Prevents stress & escapes: Minimal disturbance to the colony during cleaning.
• Multifunctional: Suitable for clearing waste and precisely dispensing food.
• Sturdy & Durable: Dimensionally stable straight model that lasts for years and is easy to clean.

Suitable for the maintenance of:

• Ant farms, outworlds, and arenas
• Breeding jars for fruit flies and feeder insects
• Terrariums for small spiders, praying mantises, and reptiles

Product specifications:

• Model: Straight
• Size: M
• Total length: 12.0 cm
• Gripping part: approx. 3.0 cm
• Application: Feeding tweezers / Cleaning tweezers

Make daily maintenance of your ant farm much easier and more hygienic. Order the straight tweezers size M today!

Forceps Tweezer Straight (Size L) – Extra reach for large and deep enclosures

When maintaining larger ant farms or deep outworlds, a standard pair of tweezers is often just too short. With these **extra-long, straight forceps (size L)** of 20 cm, you can work comfortably and with maximum control, without your wrist or fingers touching the edges of the arena.

Safe maintenance without disturbance

Thanks to the generous length of 20 cm and a sturdy grip angle of approximately 4 cm, you can easily pick up dead insects, moldy remains, or piles of waste from deep corners. Moreover, this prevents active worker ants from climbing up your arm or trying to escape via your hands during cleaning.

Robust and easy to clean

The tweezers are designed as a completely sturdy, straight model made of high-quality material. They do not deform under pressure and can be rinsed or disinfected in an instant after use. An indispensable tool for every ant keeper with a medium to large colony!

Key benefits at a glance:

• Extra long reach: At 20 cm, ideal for deep arenas, large outworlds, and terrariums.
• Safe & Hygienic: Keeps your hands at a safe distance from the ants and prevents stress.
• Large gripping capacity: 4 cm grip angle for easily picking up larger prey or waste.
• Durable & Dimensionally stable: Robust straight model that lasts for years and is easy to clean.

Suitable for the maintenance of:

• Large ant farm arenas and deep outworlds
• Terrariums for reptiles, amphibians, and larger insects
• Aquariums and paludariums

Product specifications:

• Model: Straight
• Size: L
• Total length: 20.0 cm
• Gripping part: approx. 4.0 cm
• Application: Long feeding tweezers / Cleaning tweezers

Experience the convenience of extra reach when caring for your ants. Order the straight tweezers size L today!

Tweezer Straight (Size XL) – Maximum reach for large enclosures

For maintaining large ant farm setups, tall outworlds, or spacious terrariums, standard tools are often simply too short. With this **extra-long, straight tweezer (size XL)** measuring a full 30 cm, you can work extremely comfortably and always maintain a safe distance from your colony.

Maximum hygiene and minimal disturbance

Thanks to its generous length of 30 cm and a sturdy grip angle of approximately 5 cm, you can effortlessly pick up larger prey items, feeding dishes, mold remnants, or waste pellets from the furthest corners of the arena. By keeping your hands well outside the enclosure, you prevent ants from climbing up your arm and minimize stress in the enclosure.

Stainless, robust, and durable

The XL tweezer features a completely sturdy, straight design made of high-quality material that does not bend under pressure. It is extremely durable, dimensionally stable, and can be rinsed or disinfected in an instant after use.

Key advantages at a glance:

• Maximum reach (30 cm): Effortlessly reaches the bottom of very large and deep outworlds.
• Optimal grip: Wide gripping angle of 5 cm for easy handling of food and waste.
• Safe & Stress-Free: Keeps your hands well outside the arena, preventing escapes and colony stress.
• Sturdy & Durable: Robust straight model of top quality that does not bend.

Suitable for the maintenance of:

• Large ant farm arenas and deep outworlds
• Large terrariums for reptiles, amphibians, spiders, and praying mantises
• Aquariums, paludariums, and breeding tanks

Product specifications:

• Model: Straight
• Size: XL
• Total length: 30.0 cm
• Grip part: approx. 5.0 cm
• Application: Extra long feeding tweezer / Cleaning tweezer

Enjoy the ultimate convenience of 30 cm reach when caring for your animals. Order the straight tweezer size XL today!

Plastic Pipette (3 ml / 15 cm) – Indispensable for precise humidification

Maintaining the correct moisture level is one of the most important tasks when caring for ants, small reptiles, and tropical insects. Too much water can lead to mold or flooding of the nest chambers, while too little moisture can be deadly. With this **3 ml plastic dosing pipette**, you have complete control over every drop of liquid you administer.

Precise Dosing Without Spilling

The pipette has a total length of 15 cm and features clear graduations on the side. This allows you to see exactly how many milliliters you draw up and inject. The squeeze bulb at the top operates very smoothly, making it easy to accurately drip a few drops of water into a humidification opening, or to precisely offer sugar water and fruit fly liquid in the outworld.

Safe, Flexible, and Reusable

Made from flexible and unbreakable transparent plastic (LDPE). Unlike glass pipettes, this plastic version cannot break, making it very safe for daily use around acrylic, plaster, or glass formicariums. After use, simply rinse the pipette with warm water to clean it for the next feeding.

Key Benefits at a Glance:

• Accurate Control: Equipped with clear millimeter graduations.
• Multifunctional: Perfect for humidifying plaster, sand, and acrylic nests, as well as administering liquid food.
• Unbreakable & Safe: Flexible plastic that does not splinter or break.
• Reusable: Easy to rinse and clean.

Suitable for:

• Targeted humidification of ant farms and nest fillings
• Dosing sugar water, honeydew, and vitamins in the arena
• Refilling small test tubes and drinking troughs
• Various hobby, laboratory, and breeding applications

Product Specifications:

• Total volume: 3 ml (with scale)
• Length: 15 cm (150 mm)
• Material: Transparent flexible plastic (LDPE)
• Packaging: Supplied individually

Prevent overwatering and care for your colony with precision. Add this handy 3 ml pipette to your order today!

Simple Stick-on Thermometer – Instant Temperature Readout

A stable temperature is essential for the healthy living environment of ants, reptiles, amphibians, and other insects. With this **simple stick-on thermometer**, you can see at a glance whether your animals' environment has the correct temperature. The thermometer clearly displays the scale in both **Celsius (°C)** and **Fahrenheit (°F)**.

Easy Mounting on Glass and Plastic

The back of the thermometer features a strong, self-adhesive strip. This allows you to effortlessly mount the meter on the outside or inside of your glass terrarium, acrylic ant farm, or plastic breeding box. The slim and compact design of **2 by 13 centimeters** ensures that the thermometer takes up hardly any space and does not obstruct your view of your animals.

Fast Delivery & Ready for Immediate Use

No complicated installation, batteries, or cords needed: stick the thermometer in the desired place, and you can read the temperature immediately! Ideal as an affordable main thermometer or as an extra control point in larger enclosures and breeding setups.

Key Benefits:

• Clearly Legible: Displays in both degrees Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F).
• Easy Mounting: Includes a convenient self-adhesive strip for glass and acrylic/plastic.
• Compact Size: Only 2 x 13 cm, fits almost any type of enclosure.
• Maintenance-Free: Works without batteries or loose cables.

Suitable for Temperature Control of:

• Ant farms and acrylic nests
• Terrariums for reptiles, amphibians, and spiders
• Breeding cages and insectariums for stick insects and praying mantises

Product Specifications:

• Type: Self-adhesive analog/strip thermometer
• Scale: Degrees Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F)
• Dimensions: 2 cm (width) x 13 cm (length)
• Mounting: Self-adhesive strip (suitable for glass, acrylic, and plastic)

Ensure a quick check of the living environment in your enclosure. Order this handy stick-on thermometer today and benefit from lightning-fast delivery!

Plastic Detailed Insect Set (Big Bunch 'O Bugs) – Super Exciting & Educational!

Do you know a young budding naturalist or a curious nature lover? With the Big Bunch 'O Bugs Insect Set, you get a complete collection of no less than 18 giant creepy crawlies! These gigantic toy insects and arachnids are so realistically designed that you almost don't dare to leave them in an unexpected place...

Anatomically Detailed & Super Sturdy

Each figurine in this 18-piece set is made of sturdy, flexible, and durable plastic. With a size between 6 and 8 cm, they are nice and big and perfectly manageable for small children's hands. Thanks to the detailed structures on the shells, legs, wings, and antennae, children playfully learn to recognize the unique characteristics of different insect families.

Ideal as a Teaching Aid, Toy, or Decoration

Whether you use them in the classroom for biology lessons, at a theme party, in a sandbox exploration garden, or simply for hours of creative fun: these giant insects immediately spark the imagination. The set includes a varied mix of beetles, ants, flies, caterpillars, spiders, and other fascinating arthropods!

Key Advantages at a Glance:

• 18-Piece Complete Set: Rich variety of beetles, spiders, ants, flies, and caterpillars.
• Anatomically Accurate: Colorful and detailed finish for a realistic effect.
• Large Size (6 - 8 cm): Impressive and easy to hold.
• Sturdy & Flexible Plastic: Resistant to intensive indoor and outdoor play.
• Educational Tool: Perfect for schools, childcare, or curious children at home.

Product Specifications:

• Product: Big Bunch 'O Bugs - Plastic Detailed Insect Set
• Number of pieces: 18 giant insects and arachnids
• Dimensions: Ranging between 6 cm and 8 cm per figure
• Material: High-quality, flexible, and sturdy plastic
• Application: Educational toy, teaching aid, collection, gift set

Bring the creepy crawlies safely into the playroom. Order the 18-piece toy insect set today!

Plastic Detailed Butterflies (Set of 18) – Educational & colorful toy!

Is your child or student crazy about insects and nature? With the Big Bunch 'O Butterflies, you bring home a fantastic collection of no less than 18 giant toy butterflies. This set is specifically designed to introduce young explorers to the enormous diversity of butterfly species in a playful and tangible way!

Anatomically accurate and durable

Each butterfly in this 18-piece set is uniquely designed with anatomical details, striking wing patterns, and vibrant colors. They are made of high-quality, sturdy, and flexible plastic. This makes them resistant to bumps and highly suitable for intensive use by children's hands, both indoors and outdoors in the garden!

The ideal learning tool for school and home

Whether you use the butterflies for a theme corner in primary school, at childcare, for a presentation, or simply for hours of fun in the children's room: they are a wonderful educational tool. Can you distinguish all 18 different species and recognize the correct patterns?

Key benefits at a glance:

• Large Set of 18 Pieces: Lots of variety with 18 unique, colorful butterflies.
• Educational & Informative: Anatomically detailed for recognizing species.
• Sturdy & Flexible Plastic: Durable toy that won't break easily.
• Ideal Size: Dimensions ranging from 3 to 6 cm, perfect for children's hands.
• Multifunctional: Can be used as a toy, learning tool, or for decoration with breeding kits.

Product specifications:

• Product: Big Bunch 'O Butterflies (Plastic Detailed Butterflies)
• Quantity: 18 unique plastic figurines
• Dimensions: Ranging from 3 cm to 6 cm
• Material: Sturdy and flexible plastic
• Application: Educational toy, learning tool, decoration

Stimulate the curiosity of young nature lovers. Order the set of 18 plastic butterflies.

Terra Heat Programmable Terrarium Thermostat (3600W) – Complete climate control

For the healthy breeding and care of ants, reptiles, amphibians, and tropical insects, a constant and accurate temperature is vital. The **Terra Heat digital terrarium thermostat** offers an extremely reliable solution for precisely controlling your heat cables or heat mats. Thanks to its very high switching capacity of 16 Amperes, you can safely connect equipment with a total power of no less than **3600 Watts** to a single thermostat.

Easy Plug-and-Play installation with external sensor

Installing the thermostat is child's play. You plug the unit directly into the wall socket and plug the power cord of your heating source into the thermostat. The included external temperature sensor (equipped with a cable of approximately 2 meters) is placed directly in the enclosure or under the nest. The illuminated display clearly shows the current and set temperature.

Smart weekly programs & energy-saving mode

With the clear 5-button operation, you can set up to 161 switching programs per week in an instant (23 programs per day). This allows you to perfectly simulate a day and night rhythm with varying temperatures. In addition, the thermostat has selectable comfort, energy-saving, and holiday modes. Should the temperature fall outside the limits you set, the built-in acoustic alarm will immediately warn you with a clear buzzing sound.

Key features at a glance:

• Easy operation: Plug-in design and intuitive 5-button menu.
• Extremely high capacity: Suitable for switching heat sources up to 3600W / 16A.
• Extensive programming: Up to 161 weekly programs with options for day, night, and holiday modes.
• High accuracy: Adjustable from 0°C to 60°C with precise 0.5°C steps.
• Built-in alarm: Warns with a buzzing sound for excessively high or low temperatures.
• Memory storage (EEPROM): Program settings are retained in the event of a power outage.

Suitable for controlling:

• Heat cables and heat mats for ant farms and acrylic nests
• Terrarium heating for reptiles, amphibians, and spiders
• Breeding cabinets, net cages, and vivariums for stick insects and praying mantises

Product specifications:

• Power supply / Output voltage: 230 Volt
• Maximum load: 3600 Watt (16 Amperes)
• Setting range: 0.0°C to 60.0°C (in 0.5°C increments)
• Accuracy: ± 0.5°C
• Sensors: Both internal sensor and external cable sensor (approx. 2 meters)
• Unit dimensions: 140 mm x 70 mm x 39 mm (screen: 37 x 16 mm)
• Color: White
• Protection class: IP20 (CE certified according to EU standards)

Set the perfect temperature for your enclosure and prevent fluctuations. Add the Terra Heat thermostat to your cart today!

Protection Sleeve – The perfect darkening sleeve for test tube nests

A founding queen or young ant colony in a test tube primarily needs peace and darkness. Direct light can cause a lot of stress, which slows down egg-laying or even endangers the health of the colony. With our Protection Sleeve, you can effortlessly provide your ants with a safe and dark place!

Perfectly fits Test Tube Size L

The sleeve is made of sturdy cardboard and has the exact dimensions to slide seamlessly over our test tubes in **Size L (20 mm)**. The sleeve covers the test tube over its entire length, effectively blocking ambient light.

Effortless checking without disturbing the colony

Do you want to check the progress of the brood or the health of the queen? You can slide the Protection Sleeve off the tube in one smooth motion to view the ants, and then slide it back on just as easily. No more fuss with loose pieces of aluminum foil that make noise or cause vibrations!

Key benefits at a glance:

• Maximum peace: Creates a safe, pitch-dark environment that simulates natural underground conditions.
• 100% Fit: Specially tailored for test tube Size L (20 mm).
• Full coverage: Covers the entire test tube for optimal darkening.
• User-friendly: Quick to apply and easy to slide for a brief inspection.
• Durable & Lightweight: Made of sturdy cardboard that lasts a long time.

Product specifications:

• Type: Darkening sleeve / Protection sleeve
• Material: Cardboard
• Suitable for: Test tube Size L 16 mm diameter (20 mm long).
• Application: Darkening and stress reduction of test tube nests

Give your nascent colony the best start. Order the Protection Sleeve for Test Tube L today!

Test Tube Connector Transparent – The new standard in connection material

For years, ant hobbyists relied on black rubber connectors to connect test tubes to connection hoses. While effective, these old connectors had two major drawbacks: they took up valuable space *inside* the breeding tube (with the risk of cracking if pressed too hard) AND they obscured the view of the ants. With the introduction of the **Ant-Blox Test Tube Connector Transparent**, that is definitely a thing of the past!

100% Visibility & Maximum Ease of Use

This innovative connector is completely transparent. This allows you to see exactly what is happening between the outside world and the breeding nest, even during the transport of food or workers. The connector **slides over the outside** of the test tube (16 mm diameter). This prevents tension on the plastic and preserves the entire internal volume of the test tube for your ant colony!

Suitable for Test Tube Size L (16 mm) & 10 mm Hose

The Ant-Blox connector is precisely dimensioned for the **Test Tube Size L (16 mm)**. At the front, you can effortlessly attach the classic 10 mm connection hose. This way, you can create a robust, secure, and leak-free connection to your arena or the outside world in just one second.

Ready for the future: Build your own ant farm!

If you look closely at the connector, you will see a special connection port with a rubber O-ring on top. This connector is not just an adapter, but the basis for the new **Tunnel System**. Just as you build with building blocks, you can effortlessly expand and connect your ant habitat to the entire modular Ant Farm line.

Key benefits at a glance:

• 100% Transparent: Optimal view of traffic between nest and arena, no more 'blind spots'.
• Slides over the tube: No pressure/tension in the test tube and no loss of nesting space.
• Prevents damage: No more cracked plastic test tubes due to over-tightening.
• Perfect fit: Connects seamlessly to Test Tube Size L (16 mm) and 10 mm hoses.
• Expansion Ready: Equipped with a top connection for the modular Ant-Blox tunnel system.

Product specifications:

• Brand: Mierenboerderij
• Type: Transparent test tube connector / adapter
• Test tube compatibility: Only suitable for Mierenboerderij Test Tube Size L (16 mm)
• Hose connection: 10 mm standard connection hose
• Additional port: Mierenboerderij modular port with rubber O-ring
• Material: High-quality, clear plastic

Switch to the latest generation of connection material. Order the transparent connector today!

Test Tube L (16mm x 150mm / 20ml) – Essential for every ant keeper

Starting a new ant colony almost always begins in a test tube. This plastic test tube L has the ideal dimensions (16 mm diameter x 150 mm length) to offer a fertilized queen ant the peace, security, and humidity she needs to raise her first workers. Additionally, the tube is extremely suitable as a drinking water reservoir in the outworld or as a flexible expansion of an existing formicarium.

Choose the desired version: With or without nesting substrate

Customize your breeding setup completely to your wishes. Through the selection menu, you can optionally choose a nesting substrate. With this substrate, you immediately create optimal moisture distribution and structure for the nesting area, making the test tube even more suitable for breeding more challenging ant species or as a direct replacement for your current nesting tube.

Durable plastic for safe breeding enjoyment

Unlike glass, this plastic test tube is lightweight, sturdy, and impact-resistant. This makes the tube very safe to use when caring for, connecting, and moving your colonies.

Please note with plastic tubes: Slight scratches or smudges may occasionally occur. This is inherent to the production process and transport from the factory. It absolutely does not affect the visibility or use of the tubes for your ants!

Key advantages at a glance:

• The standard size: Universally applicable for almost all common ant species and suitable for connecting to our arenas, nests.
• Multifunctional: Perfect as a founding nest, water reservoir, or expansion nest.
• Optional nesting substrate: Immediately ready for optimal moisture balance.
• Easy connection: Simple to connect to connectors, tubes, and outworlds. Special connector developed to connect with tubes.

Suitable for:

• Raising a queen ant (founding stage)
• Beginning ant colonies (Lasius, Formica, Camponotus, Myrmica, etc.)
• Water supply in arenas and outworlds
• Various hobby, laboratory, and breeding purposes

Product specifications:

• Length: 150 mm (15 cm)
• Diameter: 16 mm
• Capacity: 20 ml
• Material: Transparent plastic
• Options: Available with or without nesting substrate

Start your ant colony the right way or expand your formicarium. Select the desired options and add Test Tube L to your shopping cart.

Test Tube S (13mm x 75mm / 5ml) – Ideal for nutrition and drinking water in the outworld

A constant supply of moisture and sugars is essential for the energy and health of an ant colony. This **compact plastic test tube S** is, due to its handy dimensions (13 mm diameter by 75 mm length), ideally suited as a **feeding tube or water reservoir** in the outworld or arena of your formicarium.

The perfect food source for the outworld

Thanks to its short and slender size, this 5 ml tube fits effortlessly into almost any outworld, without taking up valuable space. Fill the tube with sugar water, honeydew, sugar-amino fluid, or just clean drinking water and seal it with a tight cotton ball. The ants can then drink safely and in a controlled manner via the cotton, without the risk of drowning or the liquid leaking into the outworld.

Durable plastic for daily use

The tube is made of transparent, impact-resistant plastic. This makes it lightweight, sturdy, and easy to clean or replace when you want to refresh the food in the outworld.

Please note with plastic tubes: Minor scratches or smudges may occur occasionally. This is inherent to the manufacturing process and transport from the factory. It absolutely does not affect its use as a feeding tube for your ants!

### Key benefits at a glance:

• Compact size: Only 7.5 cm long, fits perfectly in small and medium-sized outworlds.
• Ideal as a feeding tube: Perfect for sugar water, honeydew solutions, or fresh drinking water.
• Safe drinking: In combination with a cotton ball, ants can drink safely without drowning.
• Easy to refresh: Quick to exchange and clean during feeding.

Suitable for:

• Drinking water and sugar water supply in outworlds / arenas
• Offering liquid food to small and large ant colonies
• Various breeding and laboratory applications where a small volume (5 ml) is desired

Product specifications:

• Length: 75 mm (7.5 cm)
• Diameter: 13 mm
• Volume: 5 ml
• Material: Transparent plastic

Ensure a constant supply of moisture and energy in the outworld. Order test tube S today and optimize the arena of your ants!

Please note:

This product excludes 7-10 caterpillars. The caterpillars are shipped by the breeder from England. You order the caterpillars that belong to the kit yourself by using the coupon provided with the product (shipping costs only - PayPal/credit card). This can be done from March to September, inclusive. The 2025 butterfly season is over; caterpillars ordered now are for 2026.

Giant Butterfly Breeding Kit (45 cm Habitat & Life Cycle Figures) – The ultimate nature project!

Do you want to experience the metamorphosis of the Painted Lady butterfly on an extra-large scale? The Giant Butterfly Breeding Kit is the most complete and educational butterfly kit in our range. With a generous habitat of no less than 45 cm high and detailed 3D models of the life cycle, this is the perfect biology project for schools, childcare, after-school care, and enthusiastic nature lovers!

3D Life Cycle Models included

What makes this Giant Butterfly Kit extra special is the addition of four high-quality plastic figures. These tangibly illustrate the four phases of metamorphosis: from the microscopic egg and the hungry caterpillar to the resting chrysalis and the emerged butterfly. Ideal for visually explaining to children what is happening in the breeding cage!

How does the breeding process work?

1. Receive Breeding Kit: You will immediately receive the extra-large 45 cm habitat, the feeding pipette, the life cycle figures, manuals, and the unique caterpillar coupon.
2. Request Caterpillars: With the coupon, you can easily request the caterpillars from the specialized breeder (available from March to September). You only pay a small shipping fee via PayPal or credit card for this.
3. Care & Pupate: The breeder sends you 7 to 10 fresh caterpillars, including all their food. Watch them grow incredibly fast, climb up, and hang themselves in their crystal-like chrysalis.
4. Grand Release: As soon as the Painted Lady butterflies emerge, you care for them in the spacious habitat with fruit or sugar water via the pipette, then release them into the wild in a celebratory manner!

Durable & Reusable XL Net

The generous 45 cm habitat is made of sturdy, fine-mesh netting with a convenient zipper opening. After the butterflies have flown out, the enclosure is easy to clean and reuse. Due to its significant height and ventilation, the net is also a perfect enclosure for larger insects such as stick insects (like the Australian Walking Leaf) or praying mantises!

What's included in the Giant Butterfly Kit?

• Foldable Giant Habitat (45 cm): Extra-large and well-ventilated breeding cage.
• 4-Piece Life Cycle Set: Plastic models of egg, caterpillar, chrysalis, and butterfly.
• Feeding Pipette: For administering sugar water or nectar to adult butterflies.
• Caterpillar Coupon: Voucher for ordering 7 to 10 caterpillars + food (guarantee of at least 7 healthy butterflies).
• Instructions: Clear multilingual manual and comprehensive English information booklet.

Key advantages at a glance:

• Extra Generous Space: 45 cm high cage provides ample space for 7 to 10 butterflies.
• 100% Educational & Visual: Includes tangible life cycle figures for optimal learning.
• High Breeding Guarantee: Guaranteed successful rearing of at least 7 healthy Painted Lady butterflies.
• Durably Reusable: Also suitable for stick insects and praying mantises afterward.

Product specifications:

• Product: Giant Butterfly Breeding Kit (XL)
• Butterfly species: Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)
• Habitat dimensions: Approx. 45 cm high
Breeding season: March to September, inclusive
• Caterpillar shipping: Via the provided coupon (direct delivery from the breeder)

Experience the wonder of nature in XL format. Order the Giant Butterfly Breeding Kit today!

Giant Mantis (Hierodula sp.) – The active, large beginner species!

Do you want to start keeping praying mantises and are you looking for a robust, fierce hunter? The Giant Mantis (Hierodula sp.) is one of the largest mantis species successfully kept in captivity. Because they are not very picky and are easy to care for at room temperature, this is rightfully the most popular 'Giant Mantis' among enthusiasts.

Impressive appearance and color change

Hierodula mantises are known for their powerful build. They are usually bright light green in color, but beige, yellow, and brown variants also occur (which sometimes develop a pink hue in adulthood). What's special is that they can subtly adapt their color to the shades of their environment within a few days! Adult females become significantly larger and wider than males, who in turn are slimmer with slightly longer wings.

Fierce, active hunter

Unlike species that sit still for hours waiting, the Hierodula is a truly active hunter. As soon as it spots prey on the bottom of the terrarium, it turns its head with large eyes towards the insect and resolutely gives chase. A cricket or fly is snatched with lightning-fast raptorial arms in no time!

Care and Environmental Requirements

The Giant Mantis has few demands on its environment. A temperature of around 24 °C is ideal, but normal room temperature (at least 18 °C at night) is perfectly sufficient. The desired humidity is between 40% and 65%. Mist lightly every day or every other day with a plant sprayer to provide drinking water. Note: do not keep the enclosure continuously too wet, as excessive humidity is the number 1 cause of death.

Suitable Housing and Feeding

Because this is a large species, a terrarium of at least **20 x 20 x 35 cm** (L x W x H) is recommended for an adult specimen (at least 3x the length of the animal in height). Furnish the enclosure with many branches and artificial plants on which the mantis can hang upside down for a safe molt. Adult animals easily eat large crickets, cockroaches, and subadult locusts.

Key advantages at a glance:

• Impressive Size: One of the largest robust species in the hobby.
• The Perfect Beginner Species: Very strong, forgiving, and easy to care for.
• Active Hunting Behavior: Fiercely and dynamically hunts prey.
• Changeable Colors: Subtly adapts its shades to the environment.
• Delivered in L3-L6 Stage: Nice size to experience its growth up close.

Product specifications:

• Species: Hierodula sp. (Giant Mantis)
• Size upon delivery: Stage L3 to L6
• Ideal temperature: Approx. 24 °C (room temperature, min. 18 °C at night)
• Humidity: 40% - 65% (mist lightly every other day)
• Food: Crickets, flies, cockroaches, small locusts
• Housing: Keep individually (due to hunting instinct and risk of cannibalism)

Experience the magic of this large active hunter. Order the Giant Mantis (Hierodula sp.) today!

Red Protection Film (10x6 cm) – Observe your ants without disturbing them

One of the most enjoyable aspects of ant keeping is observing the queen and the development of the brood. However, ants naturally dig their nests deep underground in complete darkness. Direct white light causes stress, which can lead the queen to stop laying eggs. With this **special red protection film**, you can cleverly solve this problem!

How does red film work for ants?

Ants lack the eye receptors to perceive red light. As soon as you cover the test tube nest with this red film, it filters out the light visible to ants. For the colony, it feels as if they are in a pitch-dark underground chamber, while you can effortlessly look inside through the transparent red film!

Ready to use & multifunctional

The film comes in a handy size of **100 x 60 mm (10 x 6 cm)**, which is exactly the right size to easily wrap around or stick to a standard test tube. The film is not only ideal for daily observation in the ant enclosure but also offers excellent protection and peace during the transport of a colony.

Key benefits at a glance:

• Stress-free observation: Ants believe themselves to be in the dark, while you maintain perfect visibility of the nest.
• Perfect size (10x6 cm): Ready to wrap around a culture tube.
• Ideal for transport: Provides the colony with the necessary peace during shipping or relocation.
• Easy to use: Simple to attach with a small piece of tape or an elastic band.

Product specifications:

• Type: Red blackout film / Protection film
• Length: 100 mm (10 cm)
• Width: 60 mm (6 cm)
• Application: Test tube nests, transport tubes, and small nest sections

Enjoy optimal visibility of your ants without disturbing them.

Red Protection Film (21x14 cm) – Effective blackout for your ant farm

Ants build their natural tunnel systems deep underground, where it is completely dark. Direct light on the nest area causes stress, which can lead to the queen laying fewer eggs or the workers becoming restless. With our self-adhesive red protection film, you can easily give your ants the shelter and peace they need.

Perfectly matched to the Master General & Universe Saturn

The film comes in a convenient size of 210 x 140 mm (21 x 14 cm), making it a perfect fit for the nest area of ant farms such as the Master General and the Universe Saturn.

How does red film work for ants?

The visual spectrum of ants does not contain receptors for red light. Therefore, for the colony, a nest area covered with red film feels like a dark underground chamber. Because the adhesive film darkens quite strongly, you create a very stable and safe environment for the brood and the queen!

User tip: We advise covering a significant part of the nest with the red film for the ants' peace, but possibly leaving a small part uncovered. Because the film darkens strongly, observation becomes slightly more difficult — which is very nice for the ants — but by leaving a small piece free, you always maintain a quick glance at the activity! Is your ant farm larger? Simply order multiple copies.

Key benefits at a glance:

• Maximum stress reduction: Ants imagine themselves in the dark, which stimulates colony development.
• Precisely sized (21x14 cm): Specially adapted for the Master General and Universe Saturn.
• Self-adhesive & User-friendly: Easy and neatly adheres to the outside of the nest part.
• 100% Customizable: Easily trimmed with scissors for screws or specific shapes.
• Universally applicable: Also suitable for other acrylic, plaster, or plastic ant farms.

Product specifications:

• Type: Self-adhesive red blackout film / Adhesive film
• Length: 210 mm (21 cm)
• Width: 140 mm (14 cm)
• Compatibility: Ant farm Master General, Universe Saturn (or can be cut to size)
• Application: Darkening and protecting the nest area

Give your ants the peace of an underground nest. Order the red protection adhesive film (21x14 cm) today!

Red Protection Film XL (40x25 cm) – Generous darkening for large ant farms

Ants build their natural tunnel systems deep underground, where it is completely dark. Direct light on the nesting area causes stress, which can lead to the queen laying fewer eggs or the workers becoming restless. With our self-adhesive red protection film XL, you can easily give the ants in your large ant farm the shelter and peace they need!

Perfectly tailored for the Master Emperor & Universe Jupiter

The film comes in a generous size of 400 x 250 mm (40 x 25 cm), making it directly suitable for the nesting area of large models such as the Master Emperor and the Universe Jupiter.

Beautifully transparent and easy to cut to size

The film has a convenient adhesive layer and is beautifully transparent. This allows you to maintain a good view of the tunnels while filtering out harmful light frequencies for ants. The film is also very easy to cut to size with scissors, so you can easily make cutouts for screws, humidification openings, or connection entrances.

User tip: We advise covering most of the nest with the red film for the ants' peace, but optionally leaving a small part uncovered. This way, you always maintain a quick, direct view of the activity in the nest! Is the surface of your ant setup even larger? Then simply order multiple copies.

Key benefits at a glance:

• Maximum stress reduction: Ants feel as if they are in the dark, which stimulates colony development.
• Beautifully transparent: Maintain visibility of the queen and brood without disturbing the ants.
• Self-adhesive & User-friendly: Easy and neatly adheres to the nest part.
• 100% Adaptable: Easily trimmable for screws and connections.
• Generous size (40x25 cm): Specifically designed for large acrylic and gypsum ant farms.

Product specifications:

• Type: Self-adhesive red blackout film / Adhesive film XL
• Length: 400 mm (40 cm)
• Width: 250 mm (25 cm)
• Compatibility: Ant farm Master Emperor, Universe Jupiter (and can be cut to size for other models)
• Application: Darkening and protecting the nesting area

Give your ants the peace of an underground nest. Order the red protection adhesive film XL (40x25 cm) today!

Red Protection Film (10x15 cm) – Effective darkening for your ant farm

Ants build their natural tunnels deep underground, where it is completely dark. Direct light on the nest area causes stress, which can lead to the queen laying fewer eggs or the workers becoming restless. With our self-adhesive red protection film, you can easily give your ants the shelter and peace they need.

How does red film work for ants?

The visual spectrum of ants does not contain receptors for red light. For the colony, a nest area covered with red film therefore feels like a dark underground chamber. Because the adhesive film darkens very effectively, you create a very stable and safe environment for the brood and the queen!

Easy to cut to size and apply

The film comes in a convenient standard size of 150 x 100 mm (10 x 15 cm) and is equipped with an adhesive layer. You can easily cut the film to size with scissors to cover exactly the desired part of your ant farm.

User tip: We advise covering a significant part of the nest with the red film for the ants' peace, but possibly leaving a small part uncovered. Because the film darkens strongly, observation becomes slightly more difficult — which is very good for the ants — but by leaving a small piece free, you always maintain a quick view of the activity! Is your ant farm larger? Then simply order multiple pieces.

Key benefits at a glance:

• Maximum stress reduction: Ants feel as if they are in the dark, which stimulates colony development.
• Self-adhesive & User-friendly: Easy and neat to stick on the outside of the nest part.
• 100% Customizable: Easily cut to the desired size or shape with scissors.
• Universally applicable: Suitable for acrylic, plaster, plastic, and glass ant farms.

Product specifications:

• Type: Self-adhesive red blackout film / Adhesive film
• Length: 150 mm (15 cm)
• Width: 100 mm (10 cm)
• Application: Darkening and protecting the nest area of ant farms

Give your ants the peace of an underground nest. Order the red protection adhesive film (10x15 cm) today!

Insect Introduction School Kit – The wonderful world of insects in the classroom!

This school kit contains a complete collection of products to introduce children to insects in an interactive and incredibly educational way. Specifically intended for schools, childcare organizations (after-school care/daycare), childminders, and nature education centers. No more separate projects, but three fascinating insect worlds bundled into one unique lesson package!

Contents of the kit

The kit contains the following complete school packages:

1) Gel Ant Farm (Including Ant Colony)

2) Butterfly Breeding Kit – Experience the metamorphosis

3) Breeding Cage Netcage 30x30x30 cm (Including Walking Sticks)

Educational, complete, and immediately applicable

With these 3 comprehensive kits, teachers and after-school supervisors have all the tools needed to create a series of inspiring nature lessons.

Give children an experience they will never forget and order the Insect Introduction School Kit from Mierenboerderij today!