Camponotus

/kæmpoʊˈnoʊtəs/ noun

Definition

A large genus of carpenter ants found worldwide, known for nesting in wood and living in complex colonies.

Etymology

From Latin/Greek roots: 'kampe' (caterpillar/worm) and 'notos' (back or dorsum). The name describes the ant's appearance or behavior. Named scientifically in the 18th century following binomial taxonomy.

Kelly Says

Carpenter ants can nest in your house, tunnel silently for years, and suddenly create a structural catastrophe—yet they're named with a poetic classical name that most people never learn!

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