Effect of Fungus Meripilus giganteus (Pers.) P. Karst. on Occurrence and Development of False Heartwood and Rot in Fagus sylvatica L. Round Wood

Common beech is one of the most widespread and important European tree species, widely used in timber industry for energy production. Under specific set complex factors, it facutatetivly develops false heartwood, which considerably decreases market demand value processed logs. Due to its properties, heartwood more susceptible attack wood decay fungi, leads further loss quality value. One common fungi able cause heart rot Meripilus giganteus, known spread basal parts tree, where can affect valuable sections round wood. The aims this study were monitor distribution fungus appearance fruiting bodies research area, analyze extent impact on shape size occurrence length infected trees, while taking into account observed stem damage as a possible influential factor. Fruiting occurrence, life span position monitored during six-year period. For trees with confirmed infection, was evaluated appointed four classes. False share associated cross-section measured 1–4 cross-sections per at different heights, compared between uninfected trees. If present, butt-log measured. obtained results increased susceptibility mature seemed occur mostly via roots from mycelium base. It found that giganteus has significant enlargement change FH cloud- star-like, up approximately 5 m height, thus causing devaluation first assortments. presence majority extending averagely 0.5 log, utilizable volume Stem category showed no effect or rot, supporting prevailing fungus.