Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) Home Inspection Practice Exam

What characteristic do carpenter ants lack that is common in many other insect species?

1. Wings

2. Stingers

3. Eyes

4. Antennae

The correct answer is: Stingers

Carpenter ants are indeed notable for the absence of stingers, which is a characteristic commonly found in many other insect species, particularly those in the wasp family. While many insects utilize stingers as a defense mechanism or for predation, carpenter ants have developed other strategies for protection and colony defense, such as the ability to bite and spray formic acid. This identification of carpenter ants’ lack of a stinger helps in distinguishing them from other insects that may resemble them but possess more aggressive defense mechanisms. Understanding this characteristic is crucial for home inspectors and pest control professionals, as it guides how one might approach an ant infestation and informs the methods for dealing with these wood-destroying organisms in residential settings. The other choices, such as wings, eyes, and antennae, are essential for carpenter ants. They have wings during their reproductive phase, they possess well-developed eyes for navigation and communication, and their antennae play a critical role in detecting pheromones and other environmental cues. Recognizing what carpenter ants lack is vital in understanding their behavior and managing their presence effectively.