Camponotus subbarbatus also known as the bumblebee carpenter ant is an eye-catching species of ant that is native to North America. Its unique coloration sets it apart from other ants found in the region. The queens and workers both have a striking black and brown coloration with yellow gasters and black stripes. These ants have a calm disposition and their colonies tend to grow at a slow pace.
 
When it comes to diet, this species thrives on a combination of liquid sugars like honey or sugar water and a protein source like fruit flies, crickets, or mealworms. Fruit flies seem to be a particular favorite of this species.
 
To maintain a healthy colony, it's important to provide a heat source. This could be in the form of a heat mat, heat cable, or a heated room. A good temperature range for this species is around 26.7-29.4 degrees Celsius (80-85 degrees Fahrenheit) with a heating gradient.
 
Camponotus subbarbatus requires a diapause period, which lasts around 3-4 months. During this time, the ants need to be cooled down to a low temperature, with around 4.4 degrees Celsius (40 degrees Fahrenheit) being ideal. You can achieve this by placing the ants in a controlled cooling unit like a wine cooler, mini fridge, or regular fridge (if the temperature is safe for the ants) or by placing them in a non-heated room that stays above freezing.
 
Brood development can take anywhere between 5-9 weeks depending on feeding and heating conditions, with an average of 7-8 weeks. The queens tend to lay eggs in batches. Colonies tend to grow slowly in the first year or two of development, but they can reach the hundreds within 2-3 years.
 
Queen size: 8-10mm
Major size: 5-8mm
Worker size: 4-7mm
 
Overall, Camponotus subbarbatus is a fascinating species of ant to keep as a pet. With proper care and a suitable habitat, they can provide hours of entertainment and observation.