Medium Nest

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

The nest has 2 modular connection ports. The matching blackout cover and red acrylic viewing cover are sold separately with standalone nests; both covers are included in the corresponding Colony Kit. Ants and outworld are not included.

External dimensions: approximately 120 × 60 × 25 mm (as currently listed).

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

2 modular connection ports. Supplied with 2 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, supplied separately unless this nest is purchased within the matching Colony Kit.

The Medium Nest is designed for established colonies that are consistently using the available space in a smaller nest and need additional room for workers, brood and food storage.

It is best suited to:

• Colonies that have outgrown the Small Nest
• Growing colonies with an increasing worker population
• Species that naturally require more chamber space
• Larger-bodied ants that may fill smaller nests sooner
• Keepers looking to expand gradually within the Antastic Tom modular system
  

The exact colony size will depend on the species. Worker numbers alone should not determine when to upgrade; consider the size of the ants, the amount of brood and how fully the current nest is being occupied.

• 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 Medium Nest has 2 modular ports. Use the supplied 2 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 gradually and only when required. Frequency will vary with the species, room temperature, ventilation and how quickly the insert dries.

Routine checks

• Check the gypsum rather than hydrating to a fixed schedule and stop adding water if moisture begins entering the chambers.
• Inspect the acrylic cover, screws, connectors, retention clips, PLA body and unused ports regularly 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 fully dismantle and 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 the gypsum with a dry brush and use clean water only when rinsing is necessary.
• Replace the gypsum insert if it becomes heavily contaminated, persistently mouldy or damaged in a way that creates gaps.

Avoid boiling water, dishwashers, abrasive cleaners, solvents, bleach and strongly scented cleaners. Keep PLA components away from excessive heat and direct sunlight.

When should I upgrade from the Small Nest?

Upgrade when the colony is consistently occupying most of the available chamber space, brood is becoming crowded or maintaining the smaller nest is becoming difficult. Avoid upgrading simply because the colony occasionally explores every chamber.

How many workers can the Medium Nest hold?

There is no exact figure because ant species vary greatly in body size, brood volume and nesting behaviour. A colony of small ants may remain comfortable for much longer than a colony of large Camponotus in the same space.

Does the Medium Nest include a choice of inserts?

No. The Medium Nest is supplied with one gypsum insert designed specifically for the nest body.

How often should I hydrate it?

There is no universal schedule. Monitor the gypsum and hydrate gradually when it begins to dry. Requirements will vary by species and environmental conditions.

Should food be placed inside the nest?

No. Food should normally be offered in a connected outworld or feeding module to reduce waste, mould and mites inside the nesting chambers.

Do I need to use the blackout cover?

The blackout cover is strongly recommended. It keeps the chambers darker and reduces disturbance while allowing the colony to be observed briefly when required.

Can I connect it to other Antastic Tom products?

Yes. It uses the current Antastic Tom modular connector system and can connect to compatible outworlds, Founding Pods and expansion components.

Is the Medium Nest escape-proof?

It is designed to close securely when assembled correctly, but no ant setup should be assumed to be completely escape-proof. Check the acrylic, screws, blanking connectors and every modular connection before introducing ants.

Are blackout and red viewing covers included?

No. The standalone nest is supplied without these two optional covers. Matching blackout and red acrylic viewing covers are included when the nest is purchased as part of the corresponding Colony Kit.