Anobiid pests of timber in Queensland: a literature review

Abstract

The Queensland pine beetle Calymmaderus incisus Lea and the common furniture beetle Anobium punctatum (De Geer) are of economic significance as pests of, primarily, pine timber in buildings in Queensland. Changes to building practices have decreased the risk of attack to timber-in-service and reports of damage have become less frequent. The Queensland timber industry sought a review of control measures, a desired outcome being the lifting of restrictions on timber usage. Aspects of the biology, behaviour and management of these beetles in Australia and New Zealand were examined and selected literature from elsewhere was reviewed. It is evident that these anobiids are difficult subjects for research and new management strategies are unlikely in the short term. Consequently, it is recommended that the current measures, which are essentially preventative, be retained to minimise the risk of attack in interior building uses.