Powder post beetles are second only to termites as destroyers of seasoned wood. There are several kinds or species of these beetles all of which cause damage of a similar nature and likewise, require the same control measures. Among the most common of the powder post beetles are those known as Lyctus beetles. They attack only the sapwood portions of hardwoods such as oak, hickory, ash and walnut. It is for this reason that one side or edge of an infested timber may be completely destroyed; whereas the remainder is perfectly sound. The extent of infestation and subsequent damage is in direct proportional to the starch content of the wood. Those species which feed in heartwood as well as sapwood and also attack pine and other of the softer woods are usually related Anobiid or Bostrichid beetles. They are often encountered in old wood which has been in service for many years.