What impact do wood-destroying fungi have on wood?

Wood-destroying fungi play a significant role in the decay process of wood. These organisms break down the cellulose and lignin that make up the wood structure, leading to a degradation of the material. As fungi colonize the wood, they can weaken its strength and integrity, resulting in visible signs of decay such as discoloration, cracking, and structural failure. This process is important ecologically as it recycles nutrients in the environment; however, from a preservation standpoint, the presence of these fungi is detrimental to wood products, making it essential to implement preservation practices to inhibit their growth and effect.