What type of wood is primarily damaged by powderpost beetles?

Powderpost beetles are known to primarily infest and damage hardwoods. These insects lay their eggs in the cracks and pores of hardwood, and the larvae that hatch feed on the wood, creating small exit holes as they emerge. Hardwoods, which include species such as oak, maple, and ash, have a denser structure that makes them more susceptible to infestation by powderpost beetles compared to softer or engineered woods.

While softwoods, composite woods, and plywood can be affected by other forms of wood-destroying insects, powderpost beetles are specifically adapted to feed on the cellulose in hardwoods. Their life cycle and the characteristics of their larvae make hardwood the main target for these beetles, which is crucial for understanding wood damage and selecting preventive measures in pest management.