Which ant species lives in trees with rotted areas inside?

The Carpenter ant is known for its unique nesting habits, particularly its preference for living in wood that has been compromised or decayed. This species typically excavates wood to create their nests, and they favor areas where the wood is rotted or damaged. Such conditions provide the soft, easier-to-dig material that Carpenter ants need to establish their colonies effectively.

Their nesting behavior is significant because it often leads to structural concerns in buildings or trees, where the ant activity can weaken the wood further. Unlike other ant species, which may nest in soil or have different living preferences, Carpenter ants are specifically drawn to wood interiors that offer the necessary conditions for their larvae and colony development.

In contrast, the other ant species listed tend to have different nesting requirements: Pharaoh ants typically nest in small, dry areas indoors; Acrobat ants prefer to nest in trees or within household structures but do not specifically require rotting wood; and Argentine ants usually favor nesting in soil or protected areas outdoors. Thus, the Carpenter ant stands out among the options for its clear association with rotting wood in trees.