Large Nest

• 1 × PLA Large Nest body
• 2 × gypsum nest inserts
• 1 × clear acrylic nest cover
• 1 × Large Nest blackout cover
• 6 × PLA blanking connectors
• 1 × nest-to-module connector
• 9 × M3 screws
• 1 x pipette
  

The Large Nest uses two separate gypsum inserts rather than one solid insert. Together, they form the complete nesting area.

External dimensions: To be confirmed

Internal nest area: To be confirmed

Maximum chamber depth: To be confirmed

Materials: PLA, gypsum and clear acrylic

The Large Nest is approximately twice the size of the Medium Nest and uses the current Antastic Tom modular connector system. It is compatible with all current Antastic Tom modular products.

The Large Nest is intended for established colonies that are consistently occupying most of the Medium Nest and require substantially more nesting space.

It is best suited to:

• Colonies that have outgrown the Medium Nest
• Established colonies with large worker populations
• Colonies holding substantial amounts of brood
• Larger-bodied species that occupy chamber space quickly
• Multi-queen colonies requiring additional room
• Keepers expanding an existing Antastic Tom modular setup
  

The appropriate colony size will vary considerably between species. A colony of small Lasius may use the nest very differently from a large Camponotus colony.

Upgrade based on how fully the colony occupies its current nest, rather than moving them simply because the Large Nest is available. Excessive unused nesting space can encourage ants to store waste inside the chambers.

1. Check both gypsum inserts for loose dust or debris. Remove any loose material carefully with a soft, dry brush.
2. Gently place each gypsum insert into its corresponding position inside the PLA nest body.
3. Make sure both inserts sit flat and correctly aligned. Do not force or twist them, as gypsum can chip under pressure.
4. Position the clear acrylic cover over the nest body.
5. Insert the nine M3 screws and tighten them gradually and evenly.
6. Tighten the screws only until the acrylic is held securely. Overtightening may crack the acrylic, damage the gypsum or distort the PLA body.
7. Fit the six blanking connectors into all unused modular ports.
8. Fit all Retention clips
9. Attach the nest-to-module connector to the port being used for the outworld or another Antastic Tom module.
10. Hydrate the gypsum gradually through the designated hydration areas. Allow the water to absorb before adding more.
11. Check that no standing water has entered the nesting chambers.
12. Fit the blackout cover and connect the colony’s existing setup securely.
    

Allow the ants to relocate naturally. Do not shake, pour or force the colony into the Large Nest.

1. Check both gypsum inserts for loose dust or debris. Remove any loose material carefully with a soft, dry brush.
2. Gently place each gypsum insert into its corresponding position inside the PLA nest body.
3. Make sure both inserts sit flat and correctly aligned. Do not force or twist them, as gypsum can chip under pressure.
4. Position the clear acrylic cover over the nest body.
5. Insert the nine M3 screws and tighten them gradually and evenly.
6. Tighten the screws only until the acrylic is held securely. Overtightening may crack the acrylic, damage the gypsum or distort the PLA body.
7. Fit the six blanking connectors into all unused modular ports.
8. Fit all Retention clips
9. Attach the nest-to-module connector to the port being used for the outworld or another Antastic Tom module.
10. Hydrate the gypsum gradually through the designated hydration areas. Allow the water to absorb before adding more.
11. Check that no standing water has entered the nesting chambers.
12. Fit the blackout cover and connect the colony’s existing setup securely.
    

Allow the ants to relocate naturally. Do not shake, pour or force the colony into the Large Nest.

When should I upgrade to the Large Nest?

Upgrade when the colony is consistently occupying most of the Medium Nest, brood is becoming crowded or maintaining the existing nest is becoming difficult.

Occasional exploration of every chamber does not necessarily mean the colony needs more space.

Is it exactly twice the size of the Medium Nest?

The Large Nest is designed to provide approximately twice the nesting space of the Medium Nest. Exact external and internal measurements should be checked in the dimensions section.

Why does it contain two gypsum inserts?

The Large Nest uses two gypsum pieces because of its increased size. Together, they form the full nesting area while making the inserts easier to manufacture, fit and replace.

Can the two inserts be replaced separately?

Yes, provided replacement inserts are available for the product. If one insert becomes damaged or heavily contaminated, it may be replaced without necessarily replacing the other. Contact Antastic Tom to discuss further

How many workers can it hold?

There is no exact worker capacity because different ant species vary greatly in body size, brood volume and nesting behaviour.

A colony of small ants may remain comfortable in the Large Nest for considerably longer than a colony of large-bodied ants.

How should I hydrate both gypsum inserts?

Add water gradually through the intended hydration area and monitor both inserts. Do not assume that both pieces will absorb or dry at exactly the same rate.

Stop hydrating if the gypsum is heavily saturated or water begins entering the chambers.

Should I feed inside the nest?

No. Food should normally be provided in a connected outworld or feeding module. This reduces waste, mould and mites inside the nesting chambers.

Do I need the blackout cover?

The blackout cover is strongly recommended. It keeps the nesting chambers darker and reduces disturbance while allowing brief observation when necessary.

Can it connect to other Antastic Tom products?

Yes. The Large Nest uses the current Antastic Tom modular connector system and is compatible with current modular outworlds, connectors and supporting modules.

Is the Large Nest escape-proof?

It is designed to close securely when correctly assembled, but no ant setup should be assumed to be completely escape-proof.

Before introducing ants, check:

• All nine screws
• The acrylic cover
• All six blanking connectors
• The nest-to-module connector
• Each connection to another module
• The fit around both gypsum inserts
  

Can I use it for a small colony?

It is not recommended. A small colony may use excess chamber space as a waste area, making the nest difficult to maintain. Smaller colonies should normally remain in a Founding Pod, Small Nest or Medium Nest until they genuinely require the additional space.