Certified Arborist Practice Exam

True/False: White rot primarily affects the cellulose:

1. True

2. Cellulose

3. Mitigation

4. Root collar excavation

The correct answer is: True

The assertion is true because white rot fungi primarily target the cellulose content within wood. These fungi are specialized decomposers that can break down lignin, which is the substance that helps provide structural support to the wood, alongside cellulose. In the process, they effectively decompose cellulose, leading to a specific decay pattern known as white rot. This type of decay appears white and fibrous, distinguishing it from brown rot, which primarily removes cellulose, leaving behind brownish, crumbly lignin. Understanding the implications of this is important for tree management and health assessment, as the presence of white rot can significantly weaken the structural integrity of trees. Therefore, recognizing the role of these fungi in cellulose decomposition is crucial for implementing proper mitigation and management strategies to protect trees from decay.