The skipper, an insect with wood-eating larvae

What is hesperophane, this wood parasite?

Sometimes called the Hardwood Capricorn beetle, the skipper is an insect with wood-eating larvae that is a close cousin of the Capricorn beetle. Like all wood-eating insects, it is only the larvae of the skipper that feed on the wood. This insect is unique in that it only develops in hardwood species rich in starch. Its presence in a home can cause damage to timbers and furniture.

Description of hesperophane

Brown or red in colour, the skipper is very similar to the house longhorn beetle, generally measuring between 13 and 24 mm and sporting large antennae. Skipper beetle larvae are ivory in colour with large rings and measure between 25 and 30 mm. Its presence in a home is very characteristic, as skipper beetle larvae dig oval furrows 12 mm long and leave behind fine, packed sawdust.

The life cycle of the skipper

The life cycle of the skipper larva is generally 2 years. Throughout its life, the skipper will take different forms, from the egg to its “perfect” shape, but it is really during its larval phase that the skipper will cause damage to the wood of houses.

How can wood be protected from hesperophane?

Groupe Berkem has developed a professional range of curative and preventive products to protect the wood used in buildings: the Xilix range, to combat the appearance of wood-eating larvae such as the skipper beetle. Because wood is a noble material that requires a great deal of attention, the Xilix range provides effective, long-lasting protection for timber.

Groupe Berkem’s preventive solutions against hesperophane

Groupe Berkem offers XILIX, a range of preventive products for treating perfectly sound wooden structures. These products are applied in emulsion form and prevent wood-eating insects from taking up residence and laying their eggs. It’s an effective solution for protecting your assets over the long term.

Groupe Berkem’s curative solutions against hesperophane

The Xilix range treats timber infested with hesperophane. These curative products come in the form of gels and liquid emulsions, kill larvae and prevent the development of wood-eating insects. These treatments are applied by spraying or injecting them into the wood material to prevent the skippers from laying eggs again.
All these treatments do not alter the colour of the wood and preserve its original appearance perfectly, while providing lasting protection.