In-situ observations on the influence of wood moisture content and temperature on spore germination and wood colonization by Poria carbonica
A method for observing germinating fungal spores on wood was developed in which temperature and wood moisture content could be easily controlled and subsequent wood colonization could be determined. Thin radial sections of Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) heartwood (8 mm x 8 mm x 60 mu m) were inoculated with a spore suspension and a similar wood section was placed over the inoculated section forming a ''spore sandwich''. The ''spore sandwiches'' were incubated between larger blocks of Douglas fir heartwood to maintain control of the wood moisture content during incubation in controlled temperature-humidity chambers. Spore germination was observed by opening the ''spore sandwiches'' and staining the spores in situ for microscopic observation. Wood colonization was determined by isolations from the surrounding wood blocks. The ''spore sandwich'' method was used to study the influences of temperature and wood moisture content on spore germination of Poria carbonica. Basidiospores and asexual spores germinated and colonized wood at and above the fibre saturation point (c 30% moisture content), but not below. Both spore types germinated and colonized wood at 22 and 30 degrees Centigrade, but basidiospores failed to germinate at 5 and 35 degrees, whereas asexual spores germinated at 5 and 35 degrees, but were unable to colonize the wood. The ''spore sandwich'' method provides a means for assessing spore germination and wood colonization by wood decaying fungi under conditions simulating those occurring naturally in wood in service. (Refs. 21).
- Research Organization:
- Oregan State Univ., Corvallis, OR 97331, USA, Dept. of Botany Plant Pathology
- OSTI ID:
- 7146938
- Journal Information:
- Phytopathology; (United States), Vol. 76:2
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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