2006-11-02 00:45:18 · 3 answers · asked by charlie m 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Botany
fungi are saprophytic, remember. they secrete digestive fluids into the wood substrates to partially digest it. this means some level of dissolution, and added moisture which invites other fungi and bacteria to teh site to furhter disintegrate it. the moisture also hydrolises the 1:6 glucose bonds in the wood, allowing for easier disintegration. the wood is therefore able to break easily, and allows more air in, whose oxygen fuels the growth of even more decomposers. the net result is softer wood, and so decreased strength.
2006-11-02 03:15:39 · answer #1 · answered by AJ N 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The rot (fungi) oxidize the structural cellulose to reduce the structural integrity of the wood.
2006-11-02 00:48:42 · answer #2 · answered by Ralph 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
'cause the fungi ate the rest!
2006-11-02 06:49:22 · answer #3 · answered by puzzled 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋