Two years may be required to complete each generation. Deathwatch beetles are found primarily in soft woods, including girders, beams, foundation timbers, and some types of furniture. Some species attack books. This beetle is typically found in old wood and may be associated with wood that is partially decayed. None of the other boring beetles produce pelletized frass.
Adults are dark brown or black, sometimes with reddish mouthparts, legs, and antennae.
Adult beetles have a humpback appearance, so their head is not visible when viewed from above. This characteristic is also seen in deathwatch beetles. Females bore a tunnel, or egg gallery, into wood or other materials, then deposit their eggs in pores or cracks within the tunnel. Adults of some species bore through soft metal, such as lead and silver, as well as plaster and other nonwood materials, searching for sites to deposit eggs or for protection from weather extremes. In buildings, false powderpost beetles infest floors, furniture, hardwood paneling, and other wood materials.