What taxonomic rank confirms the insect is officially an ant, characterized by social structure and elbowed antennae?
Answer
Family Formicidae
The transition to the Family Formicidae is the point in the classification where an organism is officially recognized as belonging to the group universally known as true ants. Membership in Formicidae mandates a fundamental social organization, including the presence of distinct roles like queens and workers, and adherence to a specific morphology, notably possessing characteristic elbowed antennae. While other ranks define broader or narrower traits, Formicidae establishes the core identity of an ant society.

Related Questions
What is the scientific designation for the insect famously known as the Yellow Crazy Ant?What set of defining characteristics marks the Phylum Arthropoda for *A. gracilipes*?Which major groups are classified alongside ants in the Order Hymenoptera?What taxonomic rank confirms the insect is officially an ant, characterized by social structure and elbowed antennae?What is the distinguishing defensive chemistry associated with the Subfamily Formicinae, where *A. gracilipes* is placed?What physical traits define members of the Genus *Anoplolepis*?What non-Linnaean phenomenon observed in *A. gracilipes* populations enables the coexistence of multiple reproductive queens?Which Tribe does *Anoplolepis gracilipes* belong to within the Subfamily Formicinae?Why does the ecological success of *A. gracilipes* necessitate management focused on eradication over simple suppression?What characteristic defines the Kingdom Animalia membership for organisms like *A. gracilipes*?How does the typical defense mechanism of *A. gracilipes* compare to the secretions of some other invasive ant species?