What is required for Wood Decay Fungi to infest and digest lumber?

Wood decay fungi require moisture to infest and digest lumber because moisture is essential for their growth and reproduction. Fungi absorb water through their mycelium and use it to metabolize nutrients found in wood. High moisture content in wood creates an ideal environment for fungal spores to germinate and proliferate.

When the wood is consistently damp, it can support the development of various types of wood decay fungi, leading to significant damage over time. Conditions with adequate moisture levels allow these fungi to break down cellulose and lignin, the primary structural components in wood, which ultimately leads to the deterioration of the lumber.

In contrast, high temperatures can actually inhibit some types of fungi, while sunlight tends to have a drying effect and is not conducive to fungal growth. Dry conditions further prevent the establishment and growth of fungi, securing their role as a wood decay agent only when moisture is present. Thus, the presence of moisture is a critical factor for the infestation and digestion of lumber by wood decay fungi.