Ant Space Gel Habitat

Study ant behaviour in a unique gel environment conceptualized by NASA scientists. The translucent gel not only serves as a tunneling medium for the ants, but is also their food and water source. NASA scientists developed a similar self-contained ant habitat for a space mission to study how ants tunnel in near weightlessness. Be fascinated as your ant colony thrives and tunnels in its space-age gel. Great for classroom studies as well!

Age: 6+

What you get

Ant gel habitat (140mm x 170mm x 30mm), small plastic stick, magnifier, instructions. The nutrient gel is safe and non toxic, it has been sterilized to kill all microbes.

How does it work?

After placing between 10 and 30 ants in their new home it may take 24-72 hours or longer for ants to start tunneling – then feel the excitement. Watch in fascination as the ant colony goes about its daily business and creates a network of beautiful 3D tunnels. The nutrient gel is specially formulated from a sea plant to promote the healthy growth of ants, additional food and water is not necessary. NASA scientists used a similar self-contained habitat to study ant life in space without the worry of providing food and water on a regular basis in a microgravity environment. The gel tunnels were also able to withstand the tremendous G-forces and shaking during lift off without collapsing - impossible in a traditional dirt-based habitat.

Teach

• Ant life, behviour and characteristics. Notice how some ants may use the gel as building blocks to line the ant habitat or encase a dead ant.

FAQ

Follow included instructions for best results.

WARNING: CHOKING HAZARD – Small Parts. Not for children under 3 years.

Check out this video of ants digging in a similar habitat!