Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of carpenter ants?

The option regarding a narrow waist is not a characteristic of carpenter ants. Carpenter ants are actually known for having a robust body structure with a thick, rounded thorax, which contributes to their broader appearance. Their body does not feature the constricted waist that some other ant species, such as fire ants, may possess, making the distinction clear.

Carpenter ants do exhibit several key characteristics that define their identity. They have elbowed antennae, which is a common trait among many ant species but serves to help identify them. Their behavior as social insects is also a significant aspect; they live in colonies and exhibit complex social structures with different roles, including workers and queens. Additionally, the fact that they dwell in wood is crucial to their identity, as they are known for creating nests in decaying or moist wood, which provides environment for their larvae and contributes to their behavior as wood-destroyers. Understanding these characteristics helps distinguish carpenter ants from other ant types in both identification and management practices.