Large Nest

• 1 × 3D-printed PLA Large Nest body
• 1 × gypsum nest insert
• 1 × clear acrylic nest lid
• M3 lid fixings
• 1 × hydration pipette
• 3 × blanking caps
• 1 × double connector

The nest has 3 modular connection ports. The matching blackout cover and red acrylic viewing cover are sold separately with standalone nests; both covers are included only where explicitly listed in a kit. Ants and outworld are not included.

External dimensions: approximately 120 × 120 × 25 mm (as currently listed).

Main materials: 3D-printed PLA, clear acrylic and one gypsum insert.

3 modular connection ports. Supplied with 3 blanking caps and one double connector. Use compatible Antastic Tom modular fittings and check every lid, port and connected module for gaps before introducing ants.

Matching blackout and red acrylic viewing covers are optional accessories and are sold separately with the standalone nest.

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.

• Inspect the PLA body, gypsum insert, acrylic lid and screw holes for damage or loose debris.
• Fit the gypsum insert gently and evenly. Do not force porous gypsum into place.
• Fit the clear acrylic lid and secure the supplied fixings evenly without overtightening.
• The Large Nest has 3 modular ports. Use the supplied 3 blanking caps to close unused connections. Use the double connector where a compatible module is being linked; secure and check all fittings before introducing ants.
• Hydrate the gypsum gradually through the designated hydration point; allow it to absorb and check that water does not pool in the chambers.
• Connect the colony's existing accommodation using a compatible fitting and allow ants to relocate voluntarily; do not pour or shake them into the nest.
• If you have separately purchased a matching blackout cover, or bought the corresponding Colony Kit, place the cover over the nest as needed for reduced disturbance.

Hydrate the gypsum according to the needs of the species rather than following a rigid schedule. Temperature, ventilation, colony size and room conditions will affect how quickly the nest dries.

Routine checks

• Check the gypsum insert when assessing hydration and add water gradually. Stop if water begins entering the chambers.
• Inspect all acrylic, screws, connectors, retention clips, PLA surfaces and unused ports for cracks, chips, warping, looseness or gaps.
• Do not continue using damaged parts or any component that compromises containment. Replace or repair it before reuse.
• Keep food in a connected outworld and remove accessible waste before it accumulates.

Cleaning

• Only dismantle and fully clean the nest when it is empty.
• Clean the PLA body and acrylic with lukewarm water and a soft cloth or brush, then allow all parts to dry completely.
• Remove loose debris from gypsum with a soft, dry brush and rinse lightly with clean water only where necessary.
• Do not use soap or chemical cleaners on gypsum. Replace the insert if it becomes heavily contaminated, persistently mouldy or significantly damaged.

Small cosmetic marks on gypsum are not necessarily a problem, but damage that creates gaps around the chambers or beneath the acrylic should be addressed before reuse. Avoid boiling water, dishwashers, solvents, bleach and strong cleaners.

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.

How is hydration provided in the Large Nest?

The Large Nest uses one gypsum insert to provide a hydrated nesting area. Add water gradually through the intended hydration point and monitor the chambers for pooling.

Can the gypsum insert be replaced?

A replacement may be possible if an appropriate insert is available. If the gypsum becomes damaged or heavily contaminated, contact Antastic Tom to discuss replacement options.

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 the gypsum insert?

Add water gradually through the intended hydration area and check the single gypsum insert. Hydration needs will vary with species, ventilation and room conditions.

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 lid screws
• The acrylic cover
• All three blanking caps
• The nest-to-module connector
• Each connection to another module
• The fit around the gypsum insert
  

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.

Are blackout and red viewing covers included?

No. The standalone nest is supplied without these two optional covers. Covers are included with a kit only if that kit explicitly lists them.