How to Remove Cotton from Old Test Tubes - AntsCanada Tutorial #3

Summary

In this tutorial, Mikey Boos from Ants Canada demonstrates a simple trick for removing cotton from test tubes used for housing queen ants and starting colonies. He suggests using a broken barbecue skewer to create spiky fibers, which can then be used to twist and pull out the cotton effectively. Additionally, he recommends the use of 'Pus Stone ant nests' for a more permanent setup and advises on how to reuse and disinfect test tubes to prevent mold and bacteria. This practical guide aims to help ant enthusiasts save on test tubes and maintain a healthy environment for their colonies.

Takeaways

• 🌞 The video is a tutorial by AntsCanada, also known as Mikey Boos, aimed at helping those who use test tubes for housing queen ants and starting colonies.
• 🔧 Test tubes are not ideal for housing ants due to the need for frequent changes and susceptibility to mold, as shown in the video.
• 🍢 A useful trick for removing cotton from test tubes is demonstrated using a barbecue skewer, which is broken to create spiky fibers for better grip.
• 🔄 The skewer technique involves twisting and pushing into the cotton to grab and pull it out, working effectively for both wet and dry cotton.
• 👑 AntsCanada recommends transitioning queens to a different setup rather than continuing with test tubes, as vendors rarely provide suitable setups for gravid queens.
• 🏠 The 'Pus Stone Ant Nest' is a product offered by AntsCanada that has been successful for raising gravid queens and starting colonies.
• 🔄 Test tubes can be reused after proper disinfection, such as boiling, to eliminate bacteria and mold.
• ♻️ The video ends with a humorous note on recycling, emphasizing the environmental aspect of reusing materials like the barbecue skewer.
• 📢 The tutorial is intended to help viewers save on test tubes and improve their ant housing methods.
• 🎶 The video features a playful, catchy tune that repeats throughout, creating a memorable and engaging experience for the audience.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the tutorial in the video script?

The main purpose of the tutorial is to teach viewers how to remove cotton from a test tube after transferring ants to a new one, as well as to provide an alternative to using test tubes for housing queen ants and starting colonies.

What are some drawbacks of using test tubes for housing ants mentioned in the script?

The drawbacks include the need to change the test tubes frequently, and the tendency for them to become moldy over time.

What tool does the tutorial recommend for removing cotton from a test tube?

The tutorial recommends using a barbecue skewer, broken to create spiky fibers, to twist and pull the cotton out of the test tube.

How does the barbecue skewer help in removing the cotton from the test tube?

The skewer is used to create a hooking action by twisting it towards the corner of the cotton while pushing inwards, which allows the cotton to be pulled out.

What is the alternative setup recommended by the speaker for housing queen ants and starting colonies?

The speaker recommends using a setup called the 'Pus Stone ant nest' available at the Ants Canada store, which has been successful for raising gravid queens and starting colonies.

Why might someone prefer to use the 'Pus Stone ant nest' instead of test tubes?

The 'Pus Stone ant nest' is suggested as a better alternative because it is specifically designed for housing gravid queens and starting colonies, unlike test tubes which are not ideal for these purposes.

Can test tubes be reused after removing the cotton and cleaning them?

Yes, test tubes can be reused after boiling or disinfecting them to remove bacteria and mold.

What sound does the speaker make at the end of the tutorial to signify recycling?

The speaker makes a sound similar to 'hey hey hey' to signify recycling, indicating the environmental aspect of reusing materials.

What is the name of the person providing the tutorial in the video script?

The person providing the tutorial is known as Ants Canada, also referred to as Mikey Boos.

What is the significance of the phrase 'three is a charm' mentioned in the script?

The phrase 'three is a charm' is used to emphasize the effectiveness of the 'Pus Stone ant nest' as a reliable and successful setup for raising ants.

How does the tutorial address the issue of test tubes getting moldy?

The tutorial suggests that test tubes can be cleaned and disinfected to remove mold, and also promotes the use of the 'Pus Stone ant nest' as a mold-free alternative.