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- Long antennae give the long-horned beetles their name. These beetles sometimes emerge from wood in new homes, but rarely are a long-term concern.
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- Metallic wood boring beetles are recognized by having parallel sides and a V-shaped tip.
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- One of the most damaging beetle pests in Texas is the powderpost beetle. They emerge from small round holes in hardwood.
Beetles belong to the insect order Coleoptera. They are one of the most diverse groups of insects in Texas. Beetles are found in nearly every terrestrial and freshwater habitat in the world, so it should come as little surprise that beetles can also be found in homes and businesses. Identify beetles by their hard pair of front wings. These wing covers help beetles explore all sorts of habitats from soil to solid wood, to seeds and stored products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Miscellaneous beetles
- Cigarette and drugstore beetles (ENT-2004)
These small brown beetles infest food, but may show up in unexpected places. - Mildew feeding insects (ENT-2010)
Among the tiniest of household insects, mildew-feeders include some beetles. - Predaceous ground beetles (E-185)
Though not pests outdoors, these common beetles frequently enter homes where they can be nuisance. - Fabric and pantry pests of the home (E-486)
Beetles are among important pantry pests.
Wood infesting beetles
- Lyctid powderpost beetles
A wood boring beetle that makes tiny round holes in hardwoods, especially floors and trim. - Structure-infesting wood-boring beetles (E-394)
A summary of identification, biology and control of all the major wood boring beetle pests of Texas homes.