Ant-Keeping Set 5 BlackAnt with Ants – Messor barbarus

Ant-Keeping Set 5 BlackAnt with Ants – Messor barbarus

Colony size selectable below the price

Ant-Keeping Set No. 5 from the BlackAnt series is an excellent choice for keepers who want to start ant keeping with a modular formicarium and plan steady colony growth over the coming months. The set combines an Arena S with two Nest S modules, allowing the system to grow gradually – start with one nest and connect the second when the colony is ready, without stress and without relocating the ants.

The distinctive black housing, white tunnels, precise geometry, and high-quality 3D printing give the setup a modern look while ensuring full functionality for everyday observation of a Messor barbarus colony.

Why this set is different

• Grows with your colony – connect the second nest when you need more living space
• No stressful moves – expand the habitat without relocating the ants
• Clear observation – black housing with white tunnels for strong contrast
• Beginner-friendly species – Messor barbarus is calm, hardy, and fascinating to watch

What’s included in the set?

• Arena S
• Nest S × 2
• Black protective covers for nests × 2
• Two modular connectors for arenas and nests
• External water feeder
• Test tube adapter (for safe colony connection)
• Messor barbarus ants – colony size selectable below the price
• Sand and natural decorative elements
• Small bag of seeds

Product includes live ants.

Technical details

• Set dimensions: 14 × 14 × 8.5 cm
• Colour: black housing + white tunnels (BlackAnt version)
• Material: high-quality 3D print
• Plexiglass: clear, ventilated
• Nest chamber height: approx. 14 mm

Key features

• Modular construction – expand with BlackAnt or AntLove arenas and nests
• Arena S – compact feeding and observation space with excellent ventilation
• 2× Nest S – shaded, secure living space for a developing colony
• Ventilated plexiglass – stable airflow and easier humidity control
• Built-in water access in nests – reduces frequent opening
• External water feeder – extra safety during longer absences

Why choose Messor barbarus?

Messor barbarus is a popular harvester ant species, ideal for beginners and for those who enjoy observing structured colony behaviour – seed storage, chamber organisation, and a calm, predictable pace of development.

Select your colony size below the product price.

Recommended add-ons

• Tubing connectors and tubing
• Red protective nest covers
• Additional BlackAnt or AntLove arenas and nests
• Extra modular connectors
• Feeding and cleaning tools (tweezers, pipette, ant food)

What’s next?

Choose the size of your Messor barbarus colony, add the set to your cart, and start building a modular habitat that grows naturally with your ants – one nest at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is Ant-Keeping Set No. 5 for?
It’s designed for keepers who want to start with Messor barbarus and plan long-term colony growth. It works well for beginners and for more experienced keepers who prefer gradual system expansion.

How should I use the two Nest S modules?
At first, connect only one nest, which is sufficient for a small or young colony. When the colony grows, connect the second nest to increase living space without relocating the ants.

Is this set only suitable for Messor barbarus?
It’s designed primarily for Messor barbarus, but it can also be used for other species with similar space and humidity requirements.

Can I expand the set with additional BlackAnt or AntLove modules?
Yes. The system is fully compatible with BlackAnt and AntLove modules, allowing easy expansion using modular connectors.

How do I control humidity and temperature in this setup?
Humidity is mainly managed via the water feeders and optional nest moistening. Temperature and conditions are best monitored using a thermometer and hygrometer.