In what type of wood do True or Lyctid powderpost beetles typically feed?

True or Lyctid powderpost beetles primarily feed on hardwood lumber. This is due to their specific dietary preferences, which include several types of hardwoods such as oak, ash, and hickory. The larvae of these beetles have the ability to break down the cellulose in the wood, which is abundant in hardwoods but less satisfying for them in softwoods.

These beetles are particularly known for infesting wood that has a low moisture content, as this makes the wood more conducive to their development and feeding habits. The choice of hardwood also reflects the fact that their lifecycle is dependent on the wood itself, needing both nutritional quality and structure found in hardwood species.

Softwoods, while potentially vulnerable to other types of wood-boring insects, are not the primary target for True or Lyctid powderpost beetles, making the selection of hardwood lumber the correct and informative answer. This highlights the importance of knowing the specific type of wood that these pests prefer, which can aid in pest control and prevention strategies in various environments.