Both Deathwatch beetle and Powderpost beetle will attack ash. Powderpost likes woods high in starch content, but is rare though, and will generally only bore into ash that is less than 15 years old, so probably not a problem for a Morgan. Deathwatch like partly rotted wood, so may be a secondary concern in a Morgan - if your frame has already started rotting then you are in trouble anyway. (From:
https://ourproperty.co.uk/guides/woodworm_control/).
Given the above is from the internet can thus can't be trusted I wondered what the latest AI software had to say on the subject. (Of course that can't be trusted either). Chatgpt said:
User:
which wood boring insects attack ash?
ChatGPT:
Ash trees can be attacked by various wood-boring insects. One of the most notable and destructive insect pests that target ash trees is the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis). This invasive beetle species has caused significant damage to ash trees in North America. Other wood-boring insects that can infest ash trees include:
Ash/lilac borer (Podosesia syringae): These borers primarily target weakened or stressed ash trees. They also infest lilac, privet, and other related plants.
Carpenterworm (Prionoxystus robiniae): While it mainly infests hardwood trees, the carpenterworm can also attack ash trees. They typically target weakened or dying trees.
Redheaded ash borer (Neoclytus acuminatus): This beetle species is found in the eastern United States and can infest ash trees, as well as other hardwoods like oak, hickory, and maple.
Banded ash borer (Neoclytus caprea): Similar to the redheaded ash borer, this species attacks ash trees and other hardwoods.
These wood-boring insects can cause significant damage to ash trees, leading to dieback, decline, and even tree mortality if left untreated. If you suspect an infestation, it is best to consult with a professional arborist or a local forestry service for appropriate identification and treatment options.
User:
which wood boring insects attack kiln dried ash timber?
ChatGPT:
Wood-boring insects can still infest kiln-dried ash timber, although the risk is significantly reduced compared to untreated or green wood. Kiln drying helps eliminate most insect larvae and eggs present in the wood, but it does not guarantee complete eradication. Some wood-boring insects can withstand the drying process or infest the wood after it has been dried. Here are a few wood-boring insects that can attack kiln-dried ash timber:
Powderpost beetles (Lyctidae family): These beetles can infest dry hardwoods, including ash. They lay their eggs in the pores of the wood, and the larvae tunnel through the timber, leaving behind small, powdery frass.
Old House borers (Hylotrupes bajulus): These beetles primarily target softwoods, but they can occasionally infest kiln-dried hardwoods as well. They create long, winding tunnels in the wood and produce sawdust-like frass.
Deathwatch beetles (Xestobium rufovillosum): Although they prefer damp or decaying wood, deathwatch beetles can infest dry wood, including ash. They are often associated with older, high-moisture content timber.
Furniture beetles (Anobium punctatum): These beetles infest various hardwoods, including kiln-dried ash. They lay their eggs in cracks or crevices in the wood, and the larvae tunnel through the timber, leaving behind a fine, flour-like frass.
It's important to note that the risk of wood-boring insect infestations in kiln-dried ash timber is generally lower compared to untreated wood. However, to minimize the chances of infestation, it is crucial to ensure proper storage conditions, regular inspection, and timely treatment if any signs of infestation are detected.
