Scientific Name: Polyrhachis ammon
Common Name: Golden Spiny Ant
Size: Workers: 6–10mm | Queens: 10–12mm
Lifespan: Queens ~10+ years, Workers ~1–2 years
Colony Type: Monogynous (Single Queen)
Foraging Activity: Diurnal (Active During the Day)
Natural Habitat: Coastal and dry woodland regions across northern and eastern Australia
Nuptial Flight Season: Late spring to early summer (October–December)
Hibernation: No true hibernation; reduced activity in cooler months
Founding Type: Semi-claustral – Queen requires feeding during the founding stage
1. Introduction to Golden Spiny Ants
The Golden Spiny Ant (Polyrhachis ammon) is one of Australia’s most visually stunning ant species, recognised by its metallic golden abdomen and spiny, armoured thorax.
These ants are ground nesters, commonly found in dry woodlands, bushlands, and open forests. They build nests in loose soil, leaf litter, or decayed wood, often near the base of trees or under rocks. With their active foraging behavior and striking coloration, they make an excellent display species for ant keepers.
2. Natural Habitat and Distribution
Golden Spiny Ants are mainly found in northern and eastern Australia, particularly in:
🌿 Queensland: Eucalyptus woodlands and dry sclerophyll forests.
🌾 New South Wales: Open bushlands and semi-arid regions.
🏜 Northern Territory: Dry savannahs and scrublands.
🌄 Western Australia (Northern Regions): Dry woodlands and sparse vegetation zones.
Nesting Preferences
🐜 Ground Nesting – Prefers loose soil, decaying logs, or leaf litter.
🐜 Dry & Warm Environments – Thrives in warm, well-ventilated nesting sites.
🐜 Rocky Outcrops & Tree Bases – Often found nesting near tree roots or under stones.
🔗 How to Find Queen Ants in Australia
3. Nuptial Flights – When and Where to Catch a Queen
Golden Spiny Ant queens fly during the warmer months and typically settle in dry, sheltered areas when founding a colony.
When Do Golden Spiny Ants Have Nuptial Flights?
📅 Peak Season: Late spring to early summer (October–December)
🌡 Weather Conditions: Warm, humid evenings following rain
🕑 Time of Day: Late afternoon to early night (5 PM – 9 PM)
How to Identify a Queen Golden Spiny Ant
✅ Larger Size – Around 10–12mm, with a bulkier thorax.
✅ Golden Sheen – A metallic gold abdomen, distinguishing her from workers.
✅ Found in Trees – Usually climbing bark, rarely seen wandering on the ground.
🔗 What to Do with a Queen Ant After Capture
4. Founding Stage – Test Tube Setup
Golden Spiny Ant queens are semi-claustral, meaning they require food during the founding stage.
Test Tube Setup for a Queen Golden Spiny Ant
🧪 Test Tube Size: 16–20mm diameter, glass or plastic.
💧 Water Reservoir: One-third full, sealed with cotton.
🛑 Cotton Plug: Allows airflow while preventing escapes.
🍯 Feeding Needs: Provide small insects or honey water every few days.
🌡 Storage Conditions: Keep dark and undisturbed at 24–28°C.
When to Move to a Nest
🏠 Wait until the colony has 15–20 workers before transferring to an arboreal formicarium.
🔗 The Perfect Test Tube Setup for Queen Ants
5. Housing & Nesting Requirements
Golden Spiny Ants thrive in ground-based formicariums, but they require good ventilation and moisture control.
Best Nest Types for Golden Spiny Ants
🏠 Acrylic Nests – Well-ventilated, easy to monitor.
🪨 3D-Printed Nests – Customizable, good for expansion.
🪵 Naturalistic Setups – Mimics their wild nesting sites (leaf litter, soil, rocks).
🚨 Warning: These ants are skilled climbers—ensure tight-fitting lids and PTFE barriers to prevent escapes!
🔗 Moving Your Queen Ant to a Formicarium
6. Feeding Golden Spiny Ants
Golden Spiny Ants love sugars but still need proteins for the larvae.
Best Foods for Golden Spiny Ants
🍯 Sugars (Primary Food Source): Honey water, sugar water, and soft fruits.
🦗 Protein (For Larvae & Queen): Small insects like fruit flies, crickets, and mealworms.
🥥 Occasional Treats: Coconut nectar, flower sap, or pollen.
Feeding Frequency
✅ Feed sugars daily and protein 2–3 times a week.
✅ Remove uneaten food to prevent mold.
🔗 The Ultimate Ant Feeding Guide
7. Seasonal Dormancy & Hibernation
Golden Spiny Ants do not hibernate, but they may slow down during winter.
📅 Dormancy Period: May–August
🌡 Temperature: Keep at 18–22°C
🍽 Feeding: Reduce feeding frequency but always provide fresh water.
8. Common Problems & Troubleshooting
Problem: Queen Isn’t Laying Eggs
🚨 Possible Causes:
- Too much disturbance – Check only once every 1-2 weeks.
- Temperature too low – Keep at 24–28°C.
- Queen is infertile – If she lays only male eggs, she didn’t mate properly.
🔗 How to Keep Your Ants Safe from Mites and Pests
Final Thoughts
Golden Spiny Ants (Polyrhachis ammon) are a fascinating and rewarding species for ant keepers. With their metallic golden gaster, spiky thorax, and diurnal activity, they make an excellent display species.
✅ Great for intermediate to advanced ant keepers.
❌ Not ideal for beginners due to escape risk.
🐜 Would you keep Golden Spiny Ants? Let us know in the comments!
