How do carpenter ants impact wood?

Carpenter ants primarily impact wood by hollowing it out for nesting purposes. Unlike termites, which feed on wood and can consume it entirely, carpenter ants do not eat the wood but instead excavate it to create space for their colonies. They prefer moist and decayed wood, which is easier for them to hollow out, although they can also infest sound wood. The process of nesting involves creating galleries, which can significantly weaken the structural integrity of the wood over time.

The other options suggest effects that are not characteristic of carpenter ant behavior. Carpenter ants do not leave a glossy finish on wood; that's more associated with certain types of saws or finishes. They don't stain wood with moisture, even though their nesting sites can attract moisture, leading to decay over time. Understanding how carpenter ants interact with wood helps in developing effective control measures and prevention strategies.