Which type of ant has a single node of the pedicel and is small, hiding behind the overlapping abdomen?

The odorous house ant is characterized by having a single node in its pedicel and a small size, which contributes to its ability to hide behind the overlapping abdomen. These ants typically emit a distinctive, somewhat unpleasant odor when crushed, which is another identifying feature. Their body size and structure allow them to navigate and exploit various small spaces in human habitats, making them often difficult to spot.

In contrast, carpenter ants are typically larger, do not have the same odor when crushed, and have a more complex structure with two nodes in their pedicel. Fire ants are easily recognized by their aggressive behavior and reddish color, as well as their multiple nodes. Pavement ants also differ in size and structure, possessing a pair of nodes as well. The unique characteristics of the odorous house ant make it a distinguishable and identifiable species within the various types of ants typically encountered.