Crematogaster schmidti, commonly known as the Schmidt's Crematogaster, is one of the most common species of Crematogaster found in the Mediterranean and sub-Mediterranean regions, particularly in Montenegro and Greece. It is a dendrophilous species, meaning it nests inside dry trunks and branches of various shrubs and trees. This species has a notable presence throughout the Mediterranean basin and is known for its adaptability to dry environments.
Crematogaster schmidti
Habitat & Distribution
Crematogaster scutellaris can be found in various Mediterranean regions, including parts of Southern Europe and North Africa. They primarily inhabit trees, where they build their nests. In the wild, their aggressive behavior helps protect their colonies from intruders, and their fast growth rate allows them to thrive in their natural habitat.Behavior & Ecology
These ants are known for being highly territorial and aggressive, which makes them efficient at defending their nests. The workers will readily attack invaders, and they are known for their escape artist tendencies in captivity, requiring multiple forms of escape prevention. In addition to their combative behavior, they are adept at building nests in dry environments, making them adaptable to various ant-keeping setups.Colony Structure & Reproduction
Crematogaster scutellaris colonies can grow quite large, with mature colonies boasting between 10,000 and 20,000 workers. The queens range between 8-10 mm, while the workers are 3-5.5 mm in size. These ants have a relatively fast growth rate, meaning colonies can expand rapidly, providing an engaging experience for ant keepers. Queens are capable of laying eggs at a fast pace, supporting the colony's growth and development.Appearance
One of the most striking features of Crematogaster scutellaris is their red head and black body, which makes them easy to identify. These ants are visually appealing and active, making them a popular choice for ant keepers who enjoy observing their colonies.
