Pest Expert Overview: Powderpost Beetles in Bryan & College Station
There are several groups of powderpost beetles. For this discussion, we will focus on Lyctid powderpost beetles, since that is what is most commonly found in homes in Central Texas. Powderpost beetles are small, around ¼ of an inch, brown, and cylindrically shaped. Adults are cryptic and rarely seen by homeowners. Larvae are found inside infested wood. They are white, c-shaped grubs. People usually notice they have an infestation because of the fine powdery frass ejected by larvae as they feed.
Life Cycle
Adult powderpost beetles lay eggs on unfinished dead hardwoods. The larvae feed inside the wood, kicking out a talcum-powder consistency frass. Development to adult takes 1 to 3 years. Infested wood is often re-infested by the next generation. Hardwoods like oak, ash,walnut, hickory, poplar, cherry, and tropical hardwoods including bamboo are susceptible to attack. These types of wood are used in furniture, flooring, paneling, and other decorative situations. Soft wood like pine or cedar that is normally used in construction is not attacked.
Why are they Pests?
While important as natural decomposers, powderpost beetles can destroy furniture and flooring made from hardwood. Infestations can go unnoticed for years, resulting in a good deal of damage. We have found infestations mainly in imported furniture in our area. I did find an infestation of powderpost beetles in hardwood flooring in 2019.
Powderpost Beetle Prevention
- Wood manufacturers should inspect wood before use
- Wood that is painted, stained, or varnished are safe from attack
Professional Powderpost Beetle Control
If you are dealing with an infestation of powderpost beetles, Venus Pest Company can help. Founded by Aggie Entomologist Dr. Scott Lingren, we provide expert, eco-friendly Integrated Pest Management solutions in Bryan and College Station. To get started, fill out the contact form, call/text 979.774.0486 or email [email protected]. Don’t let nuisance pests take over your home!
