Dry rot is a disease of trees, often caused by the fungal species Merulius lacrymans, Poria incrassata, and/or Serpula lacrymans. The fungus invades and deteriorates the cellulose in the woody parts of the tree.

It is probably better known as an architectural problem, as it can continue destroying wood after a tree has been processed into lumber, causing instability and collapse in houses, ships' hulls, and other wooden structures.

It is known as 'dry rot' due to its abililty to affect wood with a very low moisture content (typically 20-30%). It forms large orange/brown fruiting body at the point of moisture and will send out white tendrils into adjoining brick work as it seeks more wood to infest.

Dry rot can also refer to anything that "rots" without the presence of moisture, such as when rubber tires crack and begin to disintegrate.

See also

• Wet rot

External links

• http://www.buildingpreservation.com/Dry%20rot.htm
• http://www.safeguardeurope.com/applications/dry_rot.php

Plant diseases

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