What type of fungi lives on the starch in wood cells?

Sapstain fungi are specifically known for their ability to utilize starch found in the cells of wood as a food source. These fungi typically inhabit freshly cut timber and can manifest as dark discoloration on the wood surface, which is often referred to as "stain." Unlike other types of fungi, such as brown rot and white rot fungi, which break down the cellulose and lignin in wood and can lead to structural damage, sapstain fungi primarily cause aesthetic issues without compromising the wood's structural integrity. The presence of sapstain fungi in wood indicates a high moisture content, but it does not cause decay as brown or white rot species do. Thus, recognizing sapstain fungi's specific feeding behavior on starch is essential for pest management and prevention in wood-related applications.