Which characteristic is typical of a pavement ant?

The characteristic that is typical of a pavement ant is that its head has vertical lines. This is a defining feature of pavement ants, which belong to the genus Tetramorium. The texture of their head exhibits a pattern of striations or lines that can be observed upon close inspection, making it easier to identify them among other ant species.

In contrast to other options, pavement ants do not possess a smooth, shiny body; instead, they have a rougher texture due to the presence of small hairs and that distinctive pattern on their heads. They are also not known for their ability to fly long distances, as they primarily travel on the ground in search of food and nest sites. Lastly, while some ant species might exhibit nocturnal behavior, pavement ants are generally active during the daytime, making option four less applicable to their behavior. Thus, the presence of vertical lines on their heads is a key identifier of pavement ants.