• Double Connector Portal
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Antastic Tom

Double Connector Portal

Double Connector Portal

£2.99 GBP
£2.99 GBP
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A modular bridge system designed to connect two test tubes or other systems together safely and cleanly.

Ideal for gradual colony transfers, controlled expansion, or linking other systems via tubing.

The Double Connector Portal allows colonies to move naturally without forced relocation or unnecessary disturbance.

Containment & species suitability: Check both connections for a firm fit and any escape gaps before giving ants access. Inspect again after moving or reconfiguring the setup. Connecting two components does not guarantee escape-proof containment. This portal has not been specifically validated for medically significant or powerfully stinging ants such as Myrmecia and should not be relied upon to contain them.

Best suited for:

  • Test tube transfers
  • Modular linking
  • Gradual expansion
  • Controlled migrations

See how the Antastic Tom modular system fits together.

For important guidance on appropriate species, enclosure checks, heating and safe handling, please read our Product Safety & Suitability information before use.

Safety & containment — material and inspection guidance

Keep both tubes or modular connections firmly seated throughout a transfer. Tube diameters vary, and repeated fitting or heat can change connector grip. Inspect before opening access and after moving the setup; if a tube pulls loose easily or an escape gap forms, secure the colony and replace the unsuitable component.

Temperature precaution: Avoid allowing PLA components to reach 35°C or above. Keep them out of direct sunlight and away from uncontrolled heat sources. Check actual equipment temperature where heating is used. This is a precautionary use limit, not a certified material rating.

What’s included

1 × Double Connector Portal

Test tubes, tubing and other accessories are not included unless specifically stated.

Dimensions and compatibility

Material: PLA

Internal opening: approx. 9–10 mm

Who it’s for

Designed for ant keepers who need a simple way to:

  • Move a colony into a fresh test tube
  • Replace a drying or deteriorating test tube
  • Allow ants to relocate without tipping or shaking
  • Link compatible parts of a modular setup
  • Provide temporary access between two systems

It is particularly useful during the early stages of colony development when test tubes are still being used as the primary nest.

Setup and use

Connect the colony's existing test tube to one side of the portal and the fresh test tube or compatible system to the other.

Once securely connected, allow the ants to explore and relocate in their own time. Avoid attempting to force the colony through the portal unless intervention is genuinely necessary.

For test tube transfers, conditions can be made more favourable in the destination tube to encourage a natural move.

Care and maintenance

Routine checks

  • Inspect the portal before use and regularly while connected.
  • Check for cracks, warping, damage or wear that could create a loose connection or escape gap.
  • Confirm that both connected tubes or systems remain securely seated.
  • Do not continue using the portal if any connection becomes loose or a gap develops.

Cleaning

  • Remove food, waste or debris from the connection area between uses.
  • When moving the portal between colonies, clean it thoroughly before reuse.
  • Rinse or wipe with lukewarm water and allow it to dry completely.

Avoid boiling water, dishwashers, solvents, bleach and strong cleaning products. Keep the PLA portal away from excessive heat and direct sunlight.

Frequently asked questions

How do I move ants from one test tube to another?

Connect the occupied test tube to a fresh tube using the Double Connector Portal and allow the colony to relocate naturally. Making the new tube more suitable and reducing disturbance gives the ants the opportunity to move themselves rather than being forced.

Do I need to tip the ants into the new test tube?

No. The portal is designed to allow a controlled, gradual transfer without shaking or tipping the colony from one tube to another.

When should I move ants to a new test tube?

A transfer may be useful when the original tube is drying out, becoming heavily soiled, developing problems with the water reservoir, or is otherwise no longer suitable for the colony.

Can it be used for more than test tube transfers?

Yes. The portal can also act as a bridge between compatible parts of a modular setup.

Is it escape-proof?

No.

The portal contains ventilation holes approximately 1 mm in diameter. Very small ant species or particularly small workers may be able to pass through these openings.

Always consider the size of the species before use and test the setup carefully if there is any doubt about worker size.

For very small species, the Double Connector Portal may not be suitable without additional containment.

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Make sure this suits your colony

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Useful next steps

Find relevant guidance or browse related equipment.

What equipment do you need?A practical guide to choosing essentials without overspending.Read guide ↗ Browse accessoriesFind feeding tools, connectors, covers and useful spares.Explore accessories ↗ Check compatibilityMake sure your selected parts work with the rest of your setup.Compatibility guide ↗
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A
Anonymous

Looks exactly as it does in the online images. Small air hole to allow air into the setup. Fits easily into the opening of standard test tubes and the connector's conical design allows for a tight fit.