Termites and carpenter ants aren’t the only wood-destroying organisms you need to worry about in Tennessee. Wood-destroying fungi are a species of fungus that digests moist wood. These fungi are classified based on their different types of decay. Common wood-destroying fungi include brown rot, white rot, and soft rot.
Because each of these different fungi produce unique enzymes and can feed on a variety of plant materials, they tend to be found in different environmental areas. As plants decompose under the effects of the fungi, residue that is produced can make its way into soil and sediment of an area, having a measurable effect on the environment.
It’s vital that you take the presence of wood-destroying fungi seriously. While each fungus in question may not pose a direct threat to your safety, conditions these organisms cause may lead to unsafe conditions in the areas surrounding your home. In addition, the moist conditions that lead to the growth of fungi in your Nashville, TN, home could also be an invitation to all sorts of unwelcome pests.
If you’ve noticed increased pest activity around your home—especially when it comes to moisture-loving invaders—U.S. Pest Protection can help. We’ll identify conditions, such as the presence of wood-destroying fungi, that can create a hospitable environment for pests.
How to Identify Wood-Destroying Fungi
The best way to identify wood-destroying fungi is to be aware of what their presence looks like. For brown-rot fungus, this includes a shrinking of the wood and a brown discoloration. As the fungus eats the hemicellulose and cellulose in the wood structure, the wood cracks into cubical pieces. As the fungus removes cellulose from the wood, it becomes a brown color—leading to the name brown rot. When brown rot appears to be dry or crumbling, it is sometimes called dry rot. That’s a misnomer, though. Wood must become damp to decay, although it can dry out later.
White-rot fungus, unlike brown rot, is known for attacking both dead and living trees. The white-rot fungus breaks down lignin in wood and leaves lighter-colored cellulose behind. As this happens, wood’s texture changes. It becomes moist, soft, and spongy, taking on a white or yellow color. White-rot fungus has been known to attack living trees, which makes its presence particularly alarming.
If you’ve noticed evidence of wood-destroying fungus on your trees or around your home, it’s important to take care of the problem quickly to prevent future damage or spreading of the fungus. Contact U.S. Pest Protection for more information.
Get Treatment for Wood-Destroying Fungi with U.S. Pest Protection
U.S. Pest Protection can help protect the trees around your home with regular inspections and detailed treatment plans. Whether your foliage or house is under attack from fungi, termites, or other types of pests, let us help protect your home with expert advice and personalized service. To get started, contact us today to schedule your inspection.
