Myrmica scabrinodis (The Elbowed Red Ant)

Myrmica scabrinodis is one of the most widely distributed and ecologically versatile ants in the Palearctic region. Known as the Elbowed Red Ant due to the distinctive sharp bend at the base of its antennae, this species is a quintessential inhabitant of grasslands, heaths, and open woodland margins across Europe and Asia. While it shares the general appearance of other "red ants," Myrmica scabrinodis is a specialist of the sun-drenched, open landscape. For the ant keeper, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of an ant that must balance its need for moisture with a preference for the warmth of the sun, making it a slightly more "thermophilic" alternative to its woodland cousins.

Natural History and Identification

Myrmica scabrinodis is a medium-sized member of the Myrmicinae subfamily. Workers typically measure between 3.5mm and 5.0mm. Their coloration is a rich reddish-brown, often with a slightly darker head and gaster. Like all Myrmica, they possess a two-segmented waist and a pair of sharp spines on the propodeum. The defining characteristic of this species is found in the "scape" (the first segment of the antenna). In scabrinodis, the base of the scape is sharply angled—or "elbowed"—and features a small, longitudinal ridge or "flange" that is absent in species like Myrmica ruginodis.

The queens are only marginally larger than the workers, typically ranging from 5.5mm to 6.5mm. They have a more robust thorax to accommodate their flight muscles, but they maintain the same distinctive "elbowed" antennae. Males are darker, often appearing nearly black, and have very short scapes compared to the females. This species is known for its high degree of morphological variation, which has led to intense study by myrmecologists looking at how different environments shape ant anatomy.

Distribution and Native Habitat

Myrmica scabrinodis is found across almost the entire Palearctic region, from the British Isles and Western Europe all the way to Siberia and Japan. Unlike many other Myrmica species that prefer deep shade and high moisture, scabrinodis is much more tolerant of open, sunny conditions. It is frequently the dominant Myrmica species in limestone grasslands, dry heaths, and coastal dunes. However, it is also highly adaptable and can be found in damp meadows and even on the edges of peat bogs, provided there are some sun-exposed patches for nesting.

Their nests are typically constructed in the soil, often taking advantage of the warmth provided by stones or the roots of small plants. They are also known for "opportunistic" nesting in clumps of grass or under moss. In very sunny locations, they will often build small "solaria"—domed structures of soil and plant debris that help trap heat and accelerate the development of their brood.

Diet and Foraging Behavior

Myrmica scabrinodis is a generalist predator and scavenger with a diverse diet. They are active hunters of small soil invertebrates, including springtails, fly larvae, and mites. Their foraging style is methodical and thorough; they are often seen moving slowly through the base of grass clumps, using their sensitive antennae to detect chemical trails and prey. Like most Myrmica, they are also avid collectors of honeydew and will vigorously defend aphid colonies on low-growing plants.

In captivity, they are active and enthusiastic feeders. They will readily accept a variety of protein sources, such as fruit flies, small crickets, and mealworms. They have a strong preference for liquid sugars and will often congregate in large numbers around a drop of honey or sugar-water. Because they are more active in the sun than other Myrmica, they benefit from a slightly higher foraging temperature, which can be provided by placing a low-wattage heat mat under one corner of the outworld.

Colony Lifecycle and Social Structure

The lifecycle of Myrmica scabrinodis is centered around the summer months. Nuptial flights typically occur from late July through early September, often on warm, humid afternoons. Like many other red ants, the queens are semi-claustral founders. After mating, the queen finds a suitable nesting site and begins to lay eggs, but she must regularly leave her chamber to forage for protein and sugar to feed herself and her first generation of larvae. This makes the founding stage particularly vulnerable and interesting to observe in captivity.

Colonies of Myrmica scabrinodis are frequently polygynous (containing multiple queens), which allows them to form large, stable colonies that can persist for many years. A mature colony can contain several thousand workers. Interestingly, they are also known for their complex social interactions with other species, including certain "blue" butterflies (Phengaris species) whose larvae are social parasites that trick the ants into bringing them into the nest and raising them as if they were ant larvae.

Ant Keeping: Care and Housing

Myrmica scabrinodis is a rewarding species for ant keepers who want something a bit more active than the typical woodland ant. The key to success is maintaining a balance between moisture and warmth. The nest itself should be kept consistently damp, but a portion of the nest or the outworld should be provided with a heat gradient (up to 24°C - 26°C) to allow the ants to "sun" themselves and their brood. They are sensitive to dry air, so a well-hydrated formicarium is essential.

Hibernation is a vital part of their lifecycle. They require a 4-month period at temperatures between 4°C and 9°C to simulate a temperate winter. During the active season, they are generally peaceful toward their keeper, but they will not hesitate to use their stings if the nest is directly disturbed. Their sting is similar to a mild bee sting or a nettle burn, so care should be taken when performing nest maintenance.

Recommended Setup

The All-in-One setup is perfect for starting a colony from a semi-claustral queen, as it provides easy access to food during the critical founding period. As the colony grows, the Paris formicarium is an excellent choice for a permanent home. The Paris nest's material is ideal for maintaining the high humidity levels these ants need, while also being durable enough to withstand their occasional digging. For keepers who want to witness the full complexity of their social life and interactions with a "natural" environment, the Large Habitat Kit with a soil and sand substrate is a great option, as it allows the ants to build their own solaria and intricate tunnel systems.

Fun Facts and Advanced Observations

• The "Bent" Antenna: The sharp bend in the antenna is thought to help the ants manipulate their brood and interact with each other in the tight confines of their subterranean chambers.
• Butterfly Hosts: Myrmica scabrinodis is a primary host for the Alcon Blue butterfly. The butterfly's caterpillar mimics the scent of the ant's larvae, tricking the workers into feeding it the best food in the nest.
• Stridulation Signals: Like other Myrmica, they communicate through sound. If you listen closely to a large colony with a sensitive microphone, you can hear a rhythmic "clicking" or "chirping" as the ants signal to one another.
• Pioneer Species: Because of their tolerance for open ground, Myrmica scabrinodis is often one of the first ant species to colonize new habitats, such as abandoned quarries or newly created meadows.