Powder-post Beetle

📖Biology and behaviour

Powderpost beetles are small wood-boring beetles whose larvae tunnel inside seasoned hardwood until it turns to fine powder. They are a major problem for furniture, door and window frames, flooring, plywood, veneers, cane and bamboo products and handicrafts in India.

You rarely see the beetle itself. The larvae feed inside the wood for months or years, and the damage only shows when the adults emerge, leaving small round exit holes and a fine, flour-like dust called frass. Because the wood is hollowed from inside, the surface can look sound while the strength is gone.

⚡Quick facts

Size

Adults about 2–7 mm

Attacks

Seasoned hardwood, sapwood, bamboo, plywood

Tell-tale

Tiny round holes and fine flour-like dust

Season

Often active after monsoon

🔎How to spot an infestation

• Round exit holes about 1–2 mm across on wood surfaces
• Fine, flour-like powder that falls from the holes or collects under furniture
• Powder that reappears after you clean it, meaning the infestation is active
• Weakened or crumbly wood that breaks easily
• Tiny brown beetles near infested wood, especially after the monsoon

🛡️How to prevent it

• Buy well-seasoned, treated timber and plywood, and check for pinholes before purchase
• Keep timber dry and well ventilated, and avoid damp storage
• Seal and polish all surfaces of furniture, including the back and underside
• Isolate and inspect new or second-hand furniture before use
• Treat bamboo, cane and handicraft stock before storage
• Clear dust regularly and watch for fresh powder