The Dark Side of Fungal Competition and Resource Capture in Wood: Zone Line Spalting From Science to Application

Abstract

Spalted wood is a highly sought after speciality wood product in niche furniture and construction markets.• Spalting is a term specifically designated to any pattern in wood as a result of competition between decay-fungi. • By manipulating fungi, the operator can create unique patterns in wood called zone lines. • Zone lines are formed of melanin, the same pigment humans produce in their skin. • We review a method to standardise the treatment of wood using specific fungi and how we can upscale the process.