Does conventional kiln drying of timber have a preventive effect against the house longhorn beetle (Hylotrupes bajulus)?

Abstract

ABSTRACTObservations of Hylotrupes bajulus in kiln-dried timber are very rare. In Germany, this has often been attributed to a preventive effect of the drying process. Commonly assumed explanations for a preventive effect are the loss of substances that attract the insects and the decline in nutrients caused by kiln drying. A review of the literature has been undertaken and these explanations are not well supported. Seemingly, the main direct effect of kiln drying at temperatures below 100°C is the killing of all larvae present in the timber before drying. Some indirect effects may also contribute to the reduced risk of infestations in kiln-dried timber, namely kiln-dried timber is often free of wane and therefore free of outer sapwood; it shows a low number of cracks and has a planed surface. Especially the absence of wane may contribute to the scarcity of Hylotrupes in kiln-dried timber.