Insect pests of timber-in-service: an Australian review

Abstract

Timber-in-service consists of tree components prepared for use in building and carpentry and other wooden infrastructure such as bridges, pylons and power poles. About 70% of timber used in Australia goes into building and construction and 15-20% goes into furniture, and 50 000 electricity poles are produced annually. Timber-in-service pests are a threat to such material throughout its service life. In this review, we identify native and non-native insects associated with timber-in-service in Australia and their impacts and current management. Border and post-biosecurity interception data of insects associated with wood and wood products are analysed to assess future risks, and key biosecurity threats (i.e. exotic timber-in-service pests) are identified. We review current biosecurity systems and processes related to the mitigation of potential threats to timber-in-service and provide examples of how detections of exotic timber-in-service pests are managed in Australia. We conclude with recommendations on how to improve biosecurity and management of timber-in-service pests.