Research on biodeterioration of wood, 1987–1992. I. Decay mechanisms and biocontrol

Growing concerns about the environment present an urgent need for new approaches to preserving wood. Some commonly used preservatives have been banned or restricted in several countries. Scientists at the Forest Products Laboratory , USDA Forest Service, are exploring new approaches for detecting and preventing wood decay. Progress in this ongoing research program is presented in two research papers. This report, Part I, describes research on decay mechanisms and biological control (biocontrol). Research on diagnosis of decay and in-place treatment is presented in Part II (FPL–RP–530). This research paper first describes current knowledge about how white-and brown-rot fungi decay wood and then delineates research in two problem areas: (1) control of wood decay through targeting biosynthetic and degradative pathways, and (2) biological control (biocontrol) of wood decay through nondecay microorganisms. Finally, directions for further research are described in the areas of biology of wood deterioration and protection of wood without chemical pesticides. A limited number of free copies of this publication are available to the public from the Forest Products Laboratory, One Gifford Pinchot Drive, Madison, WI 53705–2398. Laboratory publications are sent to more than 1,000 libraries in the United States and elsewhere. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in its programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, and marital or familial status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact the USDA Office of The use of trade or firm names in this publication is for reader information and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture of any product or service.