Xestobiini

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Xestobiini: //zɛs.toʊ.biˈaɪ.naɪ//

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Summary

The deathwatch beetle (Xestobium rufovillosum) is a woodboring beetle that infests aged oak timber, causing structural damage. Its presence is often overlooked until significant damage occurs, primarily due to the larvae tunneling through wood.

Physical Characteristics

The adult deathwatch beetle is cylindrical measuring on average 6 to 7.5 mm (0.24 to 0.30 in) long, with a brown thoracic shield. Larvae are creamy-white with six legs and black jaws, growing to about 11 mm (0.4 in) long. The pupa is shiny and milky white at first, measuring 7–8 mm in length and around 3 mm in width.

Identification Tips

Look for cylindrical adults about 6 to 7.5 mm long, with brownish elytra and yellowish-grey short hairs. The exit holes in the timber are 2 to 3 mm in diameter. Presence may also be indicated by frass and fresh dust around timbers.

Habitat

Typically found in old buildings where infested structural timbers are present, especially in damp or decayed wood, particularly hardwoods like oak (Quercus spp.).

Distribution

Found in Europe, including the UK, as well as North America, Corsica, Algeria, and New Caledonia.

Diet

Larvae feed on decaying wood, particularly cellulose and hemicellulose, softened by fungal decay.

Life Cycle

Adults emerge in April to June; females lay 40 to 80 eggs which hatch after about a month. Larvae feed for 2 to 10 years before pupating and emerging as adults.

Reproduction

Males tap to attract females; mating occurs shortly after emergence.

Predators

Predated by the steely blue beetle (Korynetes caeruleus) and may also fall prey to spiders.

Ecosystem Role

Play a role in decomposing dead wood, aiding nutrient cycling.

Economic Impact

Infestations can cause significant structural damage to historic buildings in the UK, particularly those made of old oak wood.

Cultural Significance

Associated with folklore and superstitions as an omen of death due to its tapping sound, which has been referenced in literature and historical writings.

Collecting Methods

• Light traps for adults
• Acoustic monitoring for tapping sounds

Preservation Methods

• Micro-drilling and injection of insecticides
• Gas fumigation on large scales

Evolution

Part of the beetle family Ptinidae; classified under the subfamily Ernobiinae, which was elevated from Dryophilini in the early 20th century.

Similar Taxa

• Anobium punctatum (common furniture beetle)
• Korynetes caeruleus (steely blue beetle)

Misconceptions

Often mistakenly associated purely with death due to its tapping sound, leading to its name and superstition regarding impending death.

Tags

• Xestobiini
• woodboring beetle
• deathwatch beetle
• structural pest
• cultural significance