Which characteristic is true regarding carpenter ants?

Carpenter ants are predominantly scavengers and primarily feed on protein-rich substances, sugars, and various food scraps, which aligns with the characteristic regarding their diet. They are naturally attracted to the honeydew produced by aphids and other insects, making them opportunistic feeders when it comes to finding sustenance around human habitation or in natural environments.

While some of their behavior may suggest aggressiveness, it's not a defining characteristic in comparison to their feeding habits. Carpenter ants do not consume or directly damage wood in the manner that termites do; instead, they excavate wood to create nests, which can lead to structural damage, but this is a byproduct of their nesting behavior rather than feeding. Additionally, while they can cause noticeable damage to structures over time, it's not accurate to say their impact is minimal, as their nesting behavior can threaten the integrity of wooden structures. Therefore, the most accurate depiction of carpenter ants' behavior, particularly in relation to their feeding habits, is their attraction to honeydew and food scraps.