Which of the following is a common behavior of Argentine ants?

Argentine ants are known for their unique social structure, which includes the formation of supercolonies. These supercolonies consist of numerous interconnected nests that can span vast areas, often containing millions of individual ants. This behavior allows the colonies to cooperate extensively and exploit resources efficiently, leading to their successful invasion in various regions, including parts of the United States.

The concept of supercolonies is significant because it highlights the Argentine ants' ability to work collaboratively and form expansive networks. This characteristic sets them apart from many other ant species that typically establish smaller, more isolated colonies. The size and interconnectedness of supercolonies can lead to competitive advantages in acquiring food and resources, making Argentine ants particularly adept at colonizing new environments.

In contrast, building large nests underground might not be a defining feature of Argentine ants, as they are more adaptable and can create nests in a variety of locations, including in soil and under objects. Being solitary foragers is inconsistent with their behavior, as Argentine ants are known to forage in groups, often working together to gather food. Hibernating in winter months is also not typical for Argentine ants, as their activity levels can vary with temperature, but they do not undergo true hibernation like some other ant species might.