Csávágók

Csávágók is a Hungarian term that translates to "woodworms" or "wood borers." It refers to the larval stage of various beetle species that feed on wood. These insects are a common pest in wooden structures, furniture, and timber. The larval stage is characterized by its segmented body and is responsible for the damage caused by these pests.

The life cycle of a csávágó typically involves an adult beetle laying eggs in or on wood. The larvae hatch from these eggs and burrow into the wood, consuming it as their primary food source. This burrowing activity creates tunnels and galleries within the wood, weakening its structural integrity. The presence of csávágók is often indicated by small holes in the wood surface, from which sawdust-like frass may emerge.

Different species of beetles are responsible for woodworm infestations, each with varying preferences for wood types and environmental conditions. Common examples include the furniture beetle (Anobium punctatum) and the deathwatch beetle (Xestobium rufovillosum). Control methods for csávágók infestations include chemical treatments, heat treatments, and in some cases, fumigation. Prevention involves protecting wooden materials from moisture and ensuring proper ventilation.