What do both ants and termites have in common?

Both ants and termites share a significant characteristic in that they can cause structural damage. Both of these insects are known for their ability to invade and damage wooden structures. Ants, particularly certain species like carpenter ants, can compromise wood as they excavate it to create nesting sites. Termites, on the other hand, are infamous for consuming wood and can lead to extensive damage in homes and buildings if not managed properly. This similarity in behavior highlights their potential for harm, making it an important aspect to understand in pest management.

The other options present traits that are not shared by both ants and termites. For example, while some ants have elbowed antennae, termites do not, which eliminates that comparison. Additionally, termites and ants have different characteristics in wing structure and size, particularly when they are in their reproductive phases; hence, the wing option is not applicable to both. Lastly, while both insects play roles in their ecosystems, not all species are considered beneficial in the same way, creating variations in their ecological impacts. Therefore, the capacity for structural damage serves as a critical point of similarity between ants and termites.