What happens to decay when temperature and moisture conditions favor fungal growth?

When temperature and moisture conditions are optimal for fungal growth, decay can resume. Fungi thrive in warm and damp environments, leading to increased metabolic activity that accelerates the breakdown of wood materials. This process is known as wood decay, where the fungi decompose the lignin and cellulose in wood, which are vital structural components. If conditions become favorable, dormant fungal spores can reactivate and begin to proliferate, promoting wood deterioration.

In conditions unfavorable for fungal growth, decay may pause or slow, but once the right temperature and moisture levels return, the decay process can start again. Understanding this is crucial for wood preservation practices, as it highlights the importance of monitoring and controlling environmental factors to prevent the onset of decay in wood materials.