{"product_id":"ant-founding-nest","title":"Founding Nest","description":"\u003cp dir=\"auto\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA compact hydrated founding nest designed as the next step on from a standard test tube setup.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAssembly required:\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplied as separate components for assembly before use. Required fixings are included. Check all lids, panels, connectors and unused ports for a secure fit before introducing ants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe Founding Nest provides a similar compact living space to a \u003cstrong\u003e150 mm test tube\u003c\/strong\u003e, but replaces the disposable tube setup with a reusable PLA nest body, absorbent gypsum insert and dedicated hydration system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eAt the front, an integrated test tube connection allows an existing colony to be attached directly and given the opportunity to relocate naturally. At the rear, a removable blanking plate keeps the nest closed during normal use while providing a connection point for future expansion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe gypsum insert can be hydrated through the dedicated hydration port, allowing moisture to be supplied without opening or disturbing the nesting chamber.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eIt is designed for colonies that have reached the point where a test tube is becoming inconvenient, dirty or difficult to maintain, but where moving into a substantially larger nest would still provide more space than they need.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecies suitability \u0026amp; containment:\u003c\/strong\u003e Choose equipment for the species' size, behaviour and the smallest workers. No ant nest or outworld should be assumed escape-proof: check lids, ports, connectors and other fittings before introducing ants and regularly during use. This standard equipment has not been specifically tested for containing medically significant or powerfully stinging ants, including bulldog ants (\u003cem\u003eMyrmecia\u003c\/em\u003e), and should not be relied upon to contain them. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/get-in-touch\"\u003eContact me\u003c\/a\u003e if you're unsure whether it's suitable for your colony.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBest suited for:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQueens with established workers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSmall developing colonies\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReplacing an ageing or unsuitable test tube\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eColonies not yet ready for a larger nest\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNatural test tube-to-nest transfers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeepers wanting a reusable hydrated founding setup\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFuture expansion into the Antastic Tom modular system\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/pages\/compatibility\"\u003eSee how the Antastic Tom modular system fits together.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHelpful guides: \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/when-should-you-move-ants-into-a-nest\"\u003eWhen to move ants into a nest\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003csmall\u003eFor important guidance on appropriate species, enclosure checks, heating and safe handling, please read our \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/product-safety-and-suitability\"\u003eProduct Safety \u0026amp; Suitability\u003c\/a\u003e information before use.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eSafety \u0026amp; containment — material and inspection guidance\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eCheck that gypsum and acrylic sit level without forcing either part; chipped or uneven gypsum can compromise the lid fit. Keep PLA\/acrylic away from uncontrolled heat, hydrate gradually and inspect the lid, blanking plate, hydration opening and test-tube connection for gaps. Secure the colony and stop using any cracked, warped or loose component until corrected.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature precaution:\u003c\/strong\u003e Avoid allowing PLA components to reach 35°C or above. Keep out of direct sunlight and away from uncontrolled or directly contacting heat sources. Measure the temperature at the enclosure, not just the heater setting. This is a precautionary use limit, not a certified temperature rating.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Antastic Tom","offers":[{"title":"Dark Green","offer_id":55450866614614,"sku":null,"price":7.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Dark Brown","offer_id":55450866647382,"sku":null,"price":7.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black","offer_id":55450866680150,"sku":null,"price":7.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1026\/9645\/2438\/files\/rn-image_picker_lib_temp_6d7b41d2-4e1f-4b5b-859d-12a992a57a2b.jpg?v=1790004973","url":"https:\/\/antastictom.com\/products\/ant-founding-nest","provider":"Antastic Tom","version":"1.0","type":"link"}