Tetraponera nigra is a delicate and distinctly narrow ant species belonging to the subfamily Pseudomyrmecinae. Native to tropical and subtropical rainforests of India, Java, and Sri Lanka, this species is known for its slender build and understated elegance. With a monogynous colony structure, Tetraponera nigra exhibits a refined appearance with both queens and workers displaying a dark brown to black coloration, accented by their graceful form. Ideal for ant enthusiasts who appreciate unique morphology and precise care, this species offers a rewarding ant-keeping experience.
Tetraponera nigra
In its natural habitat, Tetraponera nigra constructs its nest within wood and hollow stems, favoring the protective confines of its arboreal environment. The ants thrive in conditions typical of tropical rainforests, where high humidity and warm temperatures are the norm—maintaining around 60–70% humidity in the foraging arena and 60–80% in the nest, with temperatures set between 21–30°C and 24–28°C respectively. The colony, which typically grows to include between 500 and 1,000 workers, is founded in a claustral manner; although, in this species, adoption can occasionally play a role. Feeding primarily on honey water and small insects such as flies and crickets, these ants live a balanced life as they forage, nurture their brood, and maintain their intricate nest structure.
