An approach to calculate CO2 release through Norway spruce wood decay by Heterobasidion parviporum

Abstract

Fungi such as Heterobasidion spp., decomposing cellulose and lignin in the cell walls of tree roots and stems, cause widespread diseases in conifer forests, resulting in considerable economic losses in timber crops. In addition, they significantly contribute to increased atmospheric CO 2 levels. The aim of the present laboratory study was to evaluate the amount of CO 2 released during the decay of spruce wood samples by six isolates of H. parviporum over periods of 3 and 6 months. An original formula for the CO 2 release from decayed wood was developed and calculated. After 3 and 6 months, the average wood loss accounted for 13.6 and 22.1%, respectively. The estimated CO 2 release was 65.14 and 105.86 kg/m 3 , respectively. The proposed conversion method represents a useful tool for the monitoring of CO 2 emissions from wood decay, esp. in the context of global climate change.

Effect of stem rot on wood basic density, carbon, and nitrogen content of living deciduous trees in hemiboreal forests

“…In addition to these findings, a study in Poland found that the decay of 1 m 3 of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) wood would lead to the emission of approximately 106 kg of CO 2 into the atmosphere (Sierota et al 2018).…”

Fungi Occurring in Norway Spruce Wood Decayed by Heterobasidion parviporum in Puszcza Borecka Stands (Northeastern Poland)

“…Wood-inhabiting fungi, both pathogens and saprotrophs, decompose cellulose and lignin in the cell walls through oxidoreduction enzymes secreted extracellularly during substrate colonization [8]. The decomposition of wood leads to the release of D-glucose and its oxygenation, binding water and carbon dioxide [9][10][11][12]. These processes produce large amounts of energy and various metabolites, including nitrogen compounds, that can be used by other organisms [13][14][15][16][17][18].…”