Which ant is NOT categorized as a house-nesting ant?

The Argentine ant is not categorized as a house-nesting ant. This species typically builds its nests outdoors, often in soil, mulch, or along sidewalks. They tend to establish large, interconnected colonies and can forage extensively; however, they do not prefer to nest indoors like other species mentioned.

In contrast, the carpenter ant, thief ant, and Pharaoh ant are known for their nesting behaviors that often bring them into homes. Carpenter ants are infamous for excavating wood to create their nests, which can cause structural damage. Thief ants tend to nest in finer materials or existing nests of other ants, frequently in wall voids or near food sources inside structures. Pharaoh ants are notorious for establishing colonies within buildings, nesting in wall cavities, under appliances, and in other hidden parts of structures. These behaviors of nesting indoors make them categorized as house-nesting ants, unlike the Argentine ant.