Xestobium

Xestobium is a genus of wood-boring beetles in the family Ptinidae. Members are small, cylindrical beetles typically 2–5 millimeters long, with brown to reddish elytra. The best-known species is Xestobium rufovillosum, commonly called the death-watch beetle, which has given the genus a cultural association with tapping sounds in old buildings. In some classifications, Xestobium was placed in the former family Anobiidae; current systems place it in Ptinidae.

Ecology and life cycle: The larvae of Xestobium bore into seasoned or decayed wood, including structural timbers, furniture, and historic artifacts. Development can take several years, depending on temperature and wood moisture. Adults emerge through small, round exit holes and are capable of producing faint tapping sounds within galleries, a behavior long associated with the death-watch superstition.

Habitat and damage: Xestobium species infest damp, aged timber, especially in old houses, libraries, churches, and museums with moisture-damaged wood. Signs of infestation include exit holes, coarse or floury frass, and, in quiet environments, audible taps at night. They generally attack weakened wood rather than healthy living trees, so the primary concern is structural damage to buildings and stored wooden objects.

Distribution and management: These beetles are found in temperate regions worldwide where damp timber is present. Control focuses on moisture reduction, removal or replacement of infested wood, and treatment options such as heat or cold treatment, fumigation, or targeted insecticides as part of an integrated pest management approach. Prevention emphasizes proper wood drying, sealing, and maintaining low wood moisture levels to deter re-infestation.