Polyrhachis hookeri

Polyrhachis hookeri thrives in open eucalyptus forests, urban areas, and woodlands along the eastern coast of Australia, extending from Queensland to Victoria and into central regions. These ants are shy, primarily foraging during the day, and are less frequently seen than other species due to their elusive nature.
 

Colonies are monogynous (a single queen per colony) and can grow to around 500 workers. Unlike fully claustral species, founding queens of P. hookeri are semi-claustral and require feeding during the early stages of colony development. They build nests in soil or in sheltered environments such as under rocks or within logs, adapting well to both dry and humid nesting conditions.

When purchasing a Polyrhachis hookeri colony, you’ll typically start with a queen and a few workers, housed in a simple test tube setup or a small formicarium with an outworld. Early-stage colonies require close attention to ensure queens receive adequate nutrition for brood development.
 

This species is suitable for beginner to intermediate ant keepers due to its manageable care requirements and the semi-claustral founding stage. Its relatively small size and shy nature make it ideal for those looking to observe a fascinating but less demanding ant species.

To keep P. hookeri successfully, set up a formicarium with moderate humidity (30-60%) and stable temperatures. The nest should be maintained at 24-28°C, while the outworld can range from 25-30°C. Provide a mix of sand-loam substrates and decorative elements like branches, stones, or plants to replicate their natural environment.
 

Diet is a key aspect of their care. Founding queens need weekly feedings of sugary foods, along with small protein sources such as pinhead insects or spiders. Once workers emerge, gradually increase the quantity and variety of food, including nectar bait and small insects.
 

P. hookeri is a scavenger species, which means it can adapt well to various food sources. Monitor their environment carefully, as their shy nature might make them more prone to stress from disturbances.