Serpula lacrymans

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Serpula lacrymans is one of the fungi that are responsible for dry rot

"In the United Kingdom alone, the estimated cost of rectifying damage caused by dry rot is at least 150 million pounds per annum." [2]

Serpula lacrymans, also spelt S. lacrimans, Merulius lacryymans, or M. lacrimans, is a "dry rot fungus" that is "one of the most destructive fungi causing timber decay in buildings". [2]

In taxonomical science the first mention of Merulius lacrymans was in 1720 by Boerhaave. The first rigorous description of Serpula lacrymans in its fruit bodies was done by Accum in 1827. The growth cycle of Serpula lacrymans is extremely complex and can only be seen under a microscope.

Serpula lacrymans has a preference for temperatures of 21 to 22 degrees Celsius but can survive any temperature from 3 to 26 degrees Celsius. It is not clear how much light is needed to promote Serpula lacrymans growth. In terms of aeration Serpula lacrymans often grows near ventilation shafts which shows a preference for concentrated oxygen. A moisture content of 30 to 40 percent is its ideal level in wood to promote fruit-body formation.

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[edit] References

1. ^ Neil Grieve. Dry rot/Wet rot. The Conservation Glossary. University of Dundee. references [2] Serpula Lacrymans Fundamental Biology and Control Strategies, edited by D.H. Jennings and A.F. Bravery, Wiley, West Sussex, 1991, ISBN 9780471930587 This book goes into far more detail than can be covered here. It is a collection of scientific papers from scientists throughout the world who have studied Serpula lacrymans. Quotes are from page 9 of the introduction in the book.