Which species of ants is known for nesting in wood?

The species of ants known for nesting in wood is carpenter ants. These ants are particularly adept at excavating wood to create their nests, often preferring damp or rotting wood for this purpose. Unlike termites, which feed on wood, carpenter ants do not consume the wood but rather use it to construct their nests. This behavior can lead to significant structural damage over time, making it important for homeowners to recognize signs of infestation. Carpenter ants can often be found in both indoor and outdoor settings, particularly in trees, stumps, and structural wood within buildings.

In contrast, fire ants typically build mounds in the ground and do not have a preference for nesting in wood. Pharaoh ants are known for nesting in small spaces within buildings, often in wall voids or behind appliances, and are not associated with wood. Army ants are nomadic and do not create permanent nests, relying instead on temporary sites while foraging. Each of these species has unique nesting habits, making carpenter ants stand out for their utilization of wood for nesting.