Holes in bamboo

[Chariot]

I recently received a few pieces of cut bamboo and now noticed dust coming out of what looks like small perfectly round holes in various places. I didn't see these holes as we were cutting it, but it's as if they are showing up now. I tried to look this information up, but I can't figure out what's going on. Is this bugs of some kind? If so, what can I do about it?

I'm baffled. Thanks!

[Mark Meckes]

Hi Chariot,
It sounds like Powder Post Beetle. (PPB)

Is this domestically grown or imported bamboo?

What size are the holes?
Are they small holes, around 1/8" in dia or larger, say, around 3/8"?

If you can take pics, please do, and upload them with your post.

This may be just an isolated incidence, like finding a grub in an apple, or a batch incidence, so I would suggest contacting the supplier.

Usually it is only isolated, that is, it may only be in one segment of a pole. The only way to find out is to cut the pole and see if there is dust inside the internode, or look at the cut edge and see if there are any holes.

Mark

[Chariot]

Yes, very small holes. And I just saw a small black worm looking thing in one of them! They are all over the bamboo.

It was grown in my neighbors backyard in Pennsylvania.

Is there anything I can do? I don't want to lose it!

Thanks again!

[Mark Meckes]

Black worms doesn't sound like Dinoderus minutus (http://www.bamboocraft.net/bamboo/showgallery.php?cat=700) which also makes small holes.

Here's several options ...

- Cut up and bag or burn the buggy pieces.

- Soak the pieces in water for several days and drown the critters.

- Heat the bamboo over a fire, or in an oven or with a propane torch or heat gun, which'll do the bugs in.

- Steam the bamboo for about 10 minutes in a loosely lidded container.


Mark

[Chariot]

Oh shoot. None of that sounds very practical with these pieces. They are really long...6 or 7 feet. Maybe I can put them in my friend's pool. Thank you for your help.