01
Know the species
Confirm local regulations and identify the species before choosing temperature, humidity, food or hibernation. Claustral queens usually raise their first workers from reserves; semi-claustral queens must forage.
The safest beginning is not the largest nest. Identify the species, learn its founding strategy, and give a young queen stability.
02
Start small
A clean test tube with a water reservoir and cotton provides a stable founding chamber. Keep it dark, quiet and away from vibration. Check briefly rather than every day.
03
After the first workers
Offer a safe carbohydrate source and small fresh protein portions appropriate to the species. Remove leftovers before they mould. Never leave deep open liquids.
04
Move only when ready
Connect the tube to a small outworld first. Move to a formicarium only when workers can occupy and maintain it; let ants relocate voluntarily using light and moisture gradients.