What type of wood-decaying fungi is considered the most destructive?

The most destructive type of wood-decaying fungi is Poria, particularly known for its ability to cause significant damage to wood structures. Poria fungi, which includes species such as Poria placenta, are notable for their wood-decaying capabilities and can lead to severe structural compromise in buildings and other wooden structures. They typically thrive in moist environments where they can rapidly decompose wood, specifically affecting the cellulose components, which is crucial for the structural integrity of the wood.

Poria fungi can spread through both the wood itself and soil, often leading to extensive infestations that are difficult to manage. Their ability to break down hardwoods, including those used in vital structural applications, means that they pose a serious threat in terms of structural damage.

Other types of wood-decaying fungi, like dry rot, white rot, and brown rot, while also damaging, have differing modes of operation or less destructive potential when it comes to the breadth and depth of the damage they inflict. Dry rot, for example, is often considered serious, but it is specifically linked to certain types of decay and requires specific conditions that may not be as broad as those associated with Poria. White rot and brown rot have distinct characteristics and impacts, but Poria is distinguished by its potential