Quick answer. Tetramorium are small ants, two to four millimetres long, found all over Spain and known for being practically indestructible: they eat everything, tolerate both high and low humidity, grow fast and withstand mistakes that would finish off other species. The three we usually offer, caespitum, semilaeve and forte, are cared for in the same way: a temperature of 20 to 28 degrees in the active season, diapause in winter and a mixed diet of seeds, insects and sugars. Their only drawback is their size: they squeeze through any slack, so the setup's seal has to be serious from day one.
At a glance
| Origin | The whole Iberian Peninsula |
| Size | 2-4 mm |
| Diet | Seeds, insects and sugars |
| Temperature | 20-28 °C in the active season |
| Diapause | Yes |
| Difficulty | Easy |
What they are like
They are ants with large colonies and constant activity, which recruit very quickly when they find food and defend the nest forcefully. In captivity they adapt to almost any kind of nest and make the most of the available space.
There are hardly any differences in care between the three species: size and some details of colouring change, but the care is the same.
What they need
A small nest with moderate humidity and, above all, a flawless seal: gate locks in the free ports and tightly fastened connections. Start with a Terra Starter V2 and expand with the modular range when the colony asks for it, which will be soon.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get them?
At AntMaster they cost €0: a caespitum colony, a semilaeve queen and a forte queen, in Free Ants.
Are they good for beginners?
Yes, along with Messor barbarus and Lasius niger. The only thing they demand is a well-sealed setup.
Can two colonies be put together?
Never. They attack each other without exception.
Last updated: September 21, 2026.