ANTASTIC TOM / HOW THINGS FIT TOGETHER

Will it fit? Start here.

Antastic Tom's modular system is designed to let a colony's setup grow gradually. Use this guide to find the right connections and accessories, then check the actual fit and suitability before introducing ants.

What are you connecting?

Choose the part of your setup you're working on. Everything stays on this page.

Compatibility at a glance

A compatible connection and a suitable home for a particular species are two different questions. Check both.

Modular nests & outworlds

Antastic Tom modular nests, pods and outworlds are designed around compatible modular connection points.

Use
Matching modular connectors, securely retained, with the correct plugs in unused ports.
Check first
Port fit, retention clips, lids and any differences between product models.
View modular connectors & plugs ↗

Flexible PVC tubing

The flexible-tube modular connector accepts tubing specified as 10 mm internal diameter / 13 mm external diameter.

Use
The flexible-tube modular connector with correctly sized PVC tubing.
Check first
Both ends are fully seated, retained and cannot pull loose. Third-party equipment must be checked individually.
View the tubing connector ↗

Test tubes

The test-tube connector uses a flexible TPU fitting to connect compatible tubes to the modular system.

Use
An Antastic Tom test-tube connector with a tube it firmly grips.
Check first
Test tubes vary in diameter. Check the actual tube and fitting together: never assume universal compatibility.
View the test-tube connector ↗

Covers, inserts & spares

Accessories such as nest covers, gypsum inserts, clips and blanking plugs are often model- or size-dependent.

Use
The size and option specified on the individual product listing.
Check first
Your nest model, dimensions and available product variants. Do not force poorly fitting replacements.
Browse accessories & spares ↗

Connect with confidence

Three simple checks whenever you change the setup.

01 / MATCH

Choose the correct fitting

Check the model, port, tube size and accessory variant. If you're unsure, ask before ordering.

02 / ASSEMBLE

Seat and retain every connection

Secure the joints, close unused ports and confirm lids, clips and fittings sit correctly.

03 / RECHECK

Inspect before introducing ants

Look for escape gaps and loose components. Recheck after cleaning, moving or reconfiguring the setup.

Useful connecting parts

Examples from the modular system, with fit details on each product page.

Common questions

A few important distinctions before combining equipment.

Will Antastic Tom parts work with other brands?

Sometimes, if the physical interfaces match. The flexible-tube connector can bridge to compatible third-party setups through appropriately sized tubing. That does not establish a universal fit — dimensions and retention still need checking at both ends.

Can my colony stay in its test tube?

Yes. For many young colonies, the founding tube remains a suitable nest. A compatible connector can provide access to a feeding area without forcing the colony to relocate. Read the first workers guide ↗

Does a bigger nest mean a better setup?

Not necessarily. Nest size should match colony stage, worker numbers and species requirements. Adding space too early can introduce complications. How to choose a nest size ↗

What if the part looks damaged or doesn't fit?

Do not force or use a damaged or poorly fitting component with ants. Confirm the product variant and model, and contact Antastic Tom if the fit is uncertain. Report a product issue ↗

Not sure which connector or spare you need?

Tell me what you've already got and what you want to connect, ideally with measurements or photos.

Ask about compatibility ↗