Woodworm and spiders

Question (13/6/2013)

Why would someone not reduce the water content of the effected timber resulting in the larvae dying before they create an exit hole? Natural enemies address the symptom but not the underlying problem, namely: timber susceptible to attack.

One of the key issues with furniture beetle control is that the exit hole remain after the insect has gone leading to later mis-diagnosis of activity and potentially needless re-treatments. This proposed 'solution' does not address this at all. There is also no control in this trial- would the furniture beetle have re-infested the cottage or flown away to lay eggs in timber more likely to support larvae? The implication here is that Pholcus have prevented further damage to the building, but there is no evidence of this.

Answer (13/6/2013)

There is no excuse for surveyors being unable to differentiate between historic and active infestation! Active woodworm is always accompanied by the presence of fresh frass (and the occasional dead beetle on a window sill!).

We are hoping that one of our postgraduate students (subject to funding/sponsorship) will extend the trial ...complete with more rigorous controls. The implication of the informal trial is that spider populations are self-regulating and the arrival of fresh "egg laden" woodworm beetles would provoke a welcome response. During the trial, and in most places where furniture beetles occur, emerging adults fly towards the light and meet potential partners. Spiders jostle for window positions (usually occupied by a large mature females) and will feast on the beetles usually before they have mated.

Regarding moisture levels etc. It might be very difficult in older buildings to sufficiently reduce timber moisture to kill woodworm larvae. It could be done in conjunction with Pholcus as these spiders are particularly tolerant of low humidity.

You must sign in or register to edit or comment on an article

Return to Talk:Woodworm and spiders.