Karjääriplatvorms

Karjääriplatvorms, commonly known as the *carpenter worm* or *woodworm* in English, refers to the larval stage of certain beetles that infest wooden materials. These larvae are primarily associated with species in the families Anobiidae (e.g., *Anobium punctatum*) and Lyctidae, which are commonly found in temperate regions worldwide. The term "karjääriplatvorms" is used in Finnish, where *karjääri* means "carpenter" and *platvorms* translates to "woodworm."

The larvae of these beetles feed on cellulose in wood, causing structural damage over time. They typically enter wood through cracks or gaps, burrowing tunnels as they grow. Adult beetles emerge as small, often brown or black, winged insects, though they rarely cause damage themselves. Infestations are most noticeable when small, dust-like frass (excrement) accumulates around the tunnels or when adult beetles appear near wooden surfaces.

Prevention and treatment involve identifying and sealing entry points, reducing humidity to discourage beetle activity, and using insecticides or borate-based wood treatments. Affected wood may require replacement if the infestation is severe. Proper maintenance, such as avoiding moisture buildup and inspecting wooden structures regularly, helps mitigate risks.

While not all wood-boring insects are harmful, species like *Anobium punctatum* are significant pests in construction, furniture, and historical wooden artifacts. Early detection and intervention are key to minimizing damage.