The larvae of most species feed within wood (roundheaded wood borers). They tunnel deep into weakened living trees or dead trees (including undertreated lumber), because their role in forest ecosystems is to assist in decomposition of dead trees. However, from the standpoint of humans, they are amongst the most severe pests of living trees and lumber. All woodworkers reading this article know that roundheaded wood borers represent one of the greatest threats to their wood stock and finished work pieces.
