Leaf Cutting Ant Forum

Hi I just wondered if anyone could let me know what internal diameter tubing I should use when creating tubing passages between nest and feeding station?

Also, does anyone know the maximum sort of gradient for tubing that still allows the ants enough purchase? (or a solution to allow ants to travel in vertical tubing)

Thanks in advance
Rich

Im sure its no more than 25mm inner diameter and the ants will struggle taking leaves up vertical pipe, having a stick inside it can solve this. Sure others will have ideas though

deansie26 wrote:Im sure its no more than 25mm inner diameter and the ants will struggle taking leaves up vertical pipe, having a stick inside it can solve this. Sure others will have ideas though

Thanks. I thought that maybe running some cord through the tubing might give them enough grip?

RichardP wrote:

deansie26 wrote:Im sure its no more than 25mm inner diameter and the ants will struggle taking leaves up vertical pipe, having a stick inside it can solve this. Sure others will have ideas though

Thanks. I thought that maybe running some cord through the tubing might give them enough grip?

There's no set thing to use but I'd use exo Terra flexible vine, easy to work with and gives great trip.

Alternatively you can scratch the inside of the tubing a little with sandpaper. The side you aren't looking through, as to not obscure viewing.

I use clear acrylic tubing with internal diameter of 26mm, external 30mm. A very thin branch looks the best inside this. If you are using cord then it has to be non hairy, smooth surfaced. You have to use the standard white or black connectors for this though, there are no clear versions unless you make your own from wider pipe.

Acromyrmexbob wrote:I use clear acrylic tubing with internal diameter of 26mm, external 30mm. A very thin branch looks the best inside this. If you are using cord then it has to be non hairy, smooth surfaced. You have to use the standard white or black connectors for this though, there are no clear versions unless you make your own from wider pipe.

Why non hairy? does it catch when they walk over it?

Acromyrmexbob wrote:I use clear acrylic tubing with internal diameter of 26mm, external 30mm. A very thin branch looks the best inside this. If you are using cord then it has to be non hairy, smooth surfaced. You have to use the standard white or black connectors for this though, there are no clear versions unless you make your own from wider pipe.

Hi, I found this supplier who seems to offer clear connectors and pipe.

http://www.plasticpipeshop.co.uk/Clear- ... c_703.html

I'll put in a trial order and see if it's up to scratch for the job. Thanks again.

Hey,

I use for my Atta cephalotes colony 50mm diameter.
These are perfect but I think a little bit smaller is okay,too.
For my Acromyrmex crassispinus I will use 25mm!

Best regards,
Pierre

I use tubs with 40 outside (36 inside) diameter.

40 mm is a standard size in the sanitary area => one will easily find cheap L- and T-connectors, fittings, etc.