Which of the following statements is accurate regarding yellow jackets?

Yellow jackets are often misunderstood insects. They are actually a type of wasp, and one of their notable characteristics is that they possess smooth stingers rather than barbed ones. This feature allows them to sting multiple times without the stinger becoming lodged in the skin, which is more typical of honeybees and other members of the Apidae family. This attribute increases their potential to cause harm when they feel threatened.

The other statements do not accurately reflect the biology or behavior of yellow jackets. For instance, while they do contribute to the pollination process incidentally, they are not primarily considered beneficial pollinators like bees. Their diet consists more of protein from insects and sweets when scavenging, rather than nectar alone. Additionally, as mentioned, yellow jackets belong to the Vespidae family, not Apidae, which is the family that includes true bees. Understanding these distinctions helps in recognizing the ecological role and potential risks associated with yellow jackets.