Crematogaster scutellaris (European Acrobat Ant) Care Sheet & Species Profile

Slug: crematogaster-scutellaris-care-sheet

Introduction

Crematogaster scutellaris, the European Acrobat Ant, is arguably the most "charismatic" species in the hobby. With their bright cherry-red heads, jet-black bodies, and distinctive heart-shaped gasters, they are a visual masterpiece. Their name "Acrobat Ant" comes from their unique defensive posture: when threatened, they flip their gasters over their heads like a scorpion, ready to dab a drop of irritating pheromones or formic acid onto an attacker.

The "vibe" of C. scutellaris is pure, unadulterated sass. They are bold, aggressive, and incredibly fast-growing. They are the "pirates" of the Mediterranean trees, forming massive, busy colonies in bark and dead wood. For the keeper, they are a joy to watch because they are almost always "doing something"—whether it's building a carton-like structure in the nest or swarming a cricket in the outworld with military precision.

Identification & Biology

• Physical Description: Bi-colored. The head is a vivid, glossy red, while the thorax and gaster are a deep, shiny black. The gaster is pointed and heart-shaped.
• Size Range:
• Workers: 3mm – 5mm (Monomorphic, but size varies slightly).
• Queen: 7mm – 9mm (Beautifully colored like the workers).
• Distinguishing Features: The attachment of the gaster to the top of the post-petiole, which allows for the "acrobat" flexibility.

Colony Structure & Dynamics

• Typical Colony Size: Can grow to massive proportions, often reaching several thousand workers within 2-3 years.
• Social Structure: Strictly Monogyne in most regions, though very large wild nests can sometimes have multiple queens.
• Worker Roles: Generalists. They are excellent climbers and will explore every inch of their enclosure. They use chemical trails extensively to coordinate swarm attacks.
• Lifespan: Queens live 10-15 years. Workers live 6-10 months.

Habitat & Environmental Needs

• Natural Range: Mediterranean region (Southern Europe, North Africa).
• Temperature:
• Nest: 24°C – 28°C (75°F – 82°F). They are heat-lovers.
• Outworld: 20°C – 32°C.
• Humidity:
• Nest: Low to Moderate (30% – 50%). They are incredibly drought-tolerant and prefer a "dry-wood" feel.
• Outworld: Dry.
• Substrate & Nesting: Arboreal. They nest in the bark of cork oaks, pine trees, and even in old wooden structures.

Feeding & Nutrition

• Diet in the Wild: Primarily honeydew and small insects. They are known to be quite predatory.
• Captive Feeding:
• Sugars: They have a high sugar requirement. Honey, sugar-water, and Ant Shack Jelly are favorites.
• Protein: They love small, soft-bodied insects. Fruit flies, young crickets, and even tiny pieces of cooked egg or meat.
• Hydration: They need a constant water source but drink less than Camponotus.

The Ant Shack Recommended Setup

For housing Crematogaster scutellaris, we recommend our professional All-in-One Desktop Ant Habitat, which provides the ideal balance of visibility, security, and climate control.

• Observation: Crystal-clear materials for the best view of the Crematogaster scutellaris colony.
• Climate Control: Designed to maintain the specific humidity needs of Crematogaster scutellaris.
• Security: Escape-proof design tailored for active Crematogaster scutellaris workers.

Annual Cycle: Diapause & Growth

• Hibernation (Diapause): Recommended. November to February at 10°C – 15°C. Like Messor, they don't need freezing temperatures but do need a "cool down" period to rest.
• Growth Rate: Very Fast. Once the first generation of workers is out, the population tends to explode.

Common Challenges & Pro-Tips

• Troubleshooting: "Biting through stuff." These ants have strong mandibles for their size and have been known to chew through soft gaskets or thin plastic if they feel cramped. Use a high-quality Ant Shack setup to ensure they stay contained.
• Expert Advice: "Feeding Frenzy." To see them at their best, drop a live (but incapacitated) insect into the outworld. The speed at which they mobilize and use their "acrobat" posture to overwhelm the prey is spectacular.