Which wood destroying pest prefers a moisture content of 20% or higher?

The preference for a moisture content of 20% or higher is particularly associated with termites. Termites thrive in environments where wood is damp, as high moisture levels contribute to the degradation of wood, making it more amenable to their consumption and tunneling activities.

While wood-boring beetles, carpenter ants, and Anobiid beetles are also wood-destroying pests, they do not have the same strict moisture requirements as termites. For example, carpenter ants can use wood that is not necessarily wet but need a moist environment for their colonies. Anobiid beetles primarily infest seasoned or dry wood, and wood-boring beetles can also be found in wood with lower moisture content.

Thus, termites stand out as the wood-destroying pests that specifically seek out high-moisture environments to thrive and perform their destructive activities.