Golden Carpenter Ant - Camponotus fragilis

Meet Camponotus fragilis, a fascinating carpenter ant species perfectly adapted to thrive in desert and arid environments. With their striking golden and tan coloration, they blend right into the desert habitats they originate. Queens can range up to 11-13mm, while the smaller minors reach 6-8mm and the larger majors up to 11-13mm. Their unique appearance, coupled with a relatively fast growth rate, distinguishes them from other Camponotus species, making them a standout choice for ant enthusiasts.

Camponotus fragilis is an excellent choice for ant keepers, especially beginners, due to its ease of care. Unlike many other carpenter ant species, Camponotus fragilis does not require a diapause period, making them simpler to care for; combining this with the fact that they also tend to grow relatively quickly, this can be quite appealing for those looking for faster colony development. While they do not sting, they defend themselves by spraying harmless formic acid that has a vinegar-like smell. Majors of this species have a very mild bite and should not be something one should worry about. However, their excellent climbing abilities mean you’ll need to carefully manage their enclosure to prevent escapes, and the faster growth rate may necessitate expanding the nest sooner than with other species. All in all this is a great ant for someone trying to keep a species in the genus of Camponotus without having to worry about the upkeep of a diapause period at the end of each year.

Camponotus fragilis is an easy-to-manage species, particularly because they do not require a diapause period, making them less complex to care for compared to other carpenter ants. To ensure the colony thrives, maintaining a consistent temperature between 80-85°F, with 85°F being the preferred target, is crucial. This can be achieved using a heat mat or cable paired with a thermostat, and providing a heat gradient helps the ants regulate their temperature. Their diet should include both insect protein and sugary liquids, such as nectar or sugar water, which are essential for their development. While this species doesn't require a specific nest type, it's important to create a setup with a humidity gradient so the ants can choose their ideal moisture levels. Additionally, Camponotus fragilis are excellent climbers, meaning regular barrier checks are needed to prevent them from escaping.

For more information on how to take care of your ant, visit our Care Guides.

States available for purchase:

Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas

• Shipping Days: We dispatch live ant orders from Monday to Wednesday to avoid weekend delays, ensuring your ants receive prompt and safe delivery.
• Express Delivery Services: All live ant orders are sent via reliable express carriers that guarantee delivery within 1-3 business days.
• Eligible Delivery Areas: We ship only to regions where overnight or two-day shipping options are available. This minimizes transit time and reduces stress on the ants.
• Specialized Packaging: Our packaging includes insulated materials, along with heat or cold packs as necessary, to maintain a stable and comfortable environment for the ants during transit.

For more information on shipping, visit our Shipping Policy Page.

Live Arrival Guarantee: If your ants arrive dead, we will provide a refund or replacement as long as you notify us within 24 hours of receiving them and provide clear photos showing their condition. Your satisfaction and the well-being of your ants are our top priority!

Two-Week Survival Window: If your colony doesn't thrive within two weeks despite following our care instructions, we'll replace it with a product of equal value.

Please note: Shipping costs for replacements are the responsibility of the buyer