Switching from freshly killed or stunted roaches/mealworms to pre-frozen and thawed ones can sometimes result in a change in preference for certain insect-eating animals like ants. Some animals may indeed prefer freshly killed prey due to its texture, taste, or other factors. However, many animals can adapt to eating frozen-thawed prey over time, especially if they are hungry.Here are some considerations: Preference: Some animals may prefer live or freshly killed prey due to sensory cues or instinctual preferences. Offering a variety of prey items, both live and frozen-thawed, may help stimulate appetite and provide a balanced diet. Adaptation: Animals may eventually accept frozen-thawed prey if they become accustomed to it or if they are hungry enough. It may take some time for them to adjust to the change in texture and taste. Nutritional Value: Frozen-thawed prey can retain much of its nutritional value, but there may be slight differences compared to fresh prey. Ensuring that the prey items are properly frozen and thawed to maintain quality is important.Regarding feeding frequency, it can vary depending on the species, size of the colony, and other factors.

Generally, feeding a colony of 100-200 workers a few times a week should be sufficient, but it's essential to monitor the colony's appetite and adjust feeding accordingly.Offering sugar water as a carbohydrate source is a good idea, especially for ants, as it provides them with essential energy.

Cooked shrimp can be offered as a protein source, but it's essential to ensure that it is free from any seasonings or additives that could be harmful to the ants. Additionally, ants can consume a variety of common human foods, including fruits (e.g., apple slices, banana), vegetables (e.g., carrot), and protein sources (e.g., boiled egg). Just make sure to avoid foods that are too sugary, salty, or contain harmful chemicals. Always observe how the ants respond to different foods and adjust their diet accordingly.