Which type of wood is primarily attacked by powderpost beetles?

The type of wood primarily attacked by powderpost beetles is seasoned hardwoods. These insects are notably attracted to wood that is dry and has a low moisture content, which is characteristic of seasoned hardwoods. Unlike untreated hardwoods, which may still contain some moisture, seasoned hardwoods provide an ideal environment for the beetles to thrive and reproduce.

Powderpost beetles typically target hardwoods because they are able to digest the cellulose in the wood more effectively than softwoods, which tend to have a different structure and may be more resistant to infestation. This preference for seasoned hardwoods also aligns with their life cycle and the way they lay eggs in the wood, as they prefer the structural integrity found in such materials.

While softwoods are not the primary target for powderpost beetles, they can still be susceptible to other types of wood-destroying insects. Composite materials are generally not a target for these beetles, as they are made from a mixture of wood fibers and other substances, often providing less of a food source for the beetles compared to solid wood. Therefore, seasoned hardwoods clearly stand out as the main type of wood that powderpost beetles attack.