Woodeating

Woodeating, also written wood-eating, describes the consumption of wood by living organisms. The term covers a range of taxa whose diets include wood as a primary or significant component. Woodeating is common in forests and urban settings, where it affects dead wood, living trees, and timber products. Etymology traces to Greek xylon (wood) and phagein (to eat).

Most recognizable woodeating organisms are insects, notably termites and wood-boring beetle larvae. Termites digest cellulose with gut symbionts, including bacteria and protozoa; some lineages, such as fungus-growing termites, cultivate fungal gardens that aid digestion. Wood-boring beetle larvae tunnel into sapwood and heartwood, feeding on tissues and any fungal growth within the wood. Some ants also interact with wood by farming fungi or exploiting wood-borne fungi.

Fungi are also major wood-eaters. Wood-decay fungi break down lignin and cellulose, causing structural degradation. White-rot fungi degrade lignin, leaving fibrous remnants; brown-rot fungi primarily consume cellulose, weakening the wood. These fungi drive nutrient cycling in ecosystems but can damage buildings, fence posts, and other wooden structures.

Ecological and economic aspects: In nature, woodeating organisms contribute to decomposition and habitat formation. In human contexts, infestations can reduce timber value and compromise safety. Management includes moisture control, proper storage, physical barriers, wood preservatives, fumigation where appropriate, and integrated pest management.