Where should control activities be focused if true powderpost beetles are identified as causing damage?

When true powderpost beetles are identified as causing damage, control activities should be focused on hardwood surfaces. True powderpost beetles primarily infest hardwood species, as their larvae can digest the lignin and cellulose found in these types of wood. Understanding the preference of these insects for hardwoods is essential because it allows pest control measures to be effectively directed at the most vulnerable areas.

Focusing on hardwood surfaces reduces the risk of overlooking significant damage that could occur if treatments were applied indiscriminately across all types of wood. Since true powderpost beetles do not commonly infest softwood or exterior wood surfaces, targeting hardwood ensures that the most effective and relevant control strategies are implemented, optimizing resources and efforts in managing the infestation.