[5] Most of the stem decay (heart rot) in mature forests that results from this fungus does not interfere with the normal growth and physiological processes of live trees since the vascular system is not affected.

This brown rot fungus degrades only cellulose, leaving the other primary constituents of wood, lignin, as a considerably less dense but fairly stable residual structure that is suitable for excavation by woodpeckers.

It can also be observed growing on large stem wounds, broken tops, and dead tissue of live trees.

[3] In mature forests, these stem decay fungi cause enormous annual wood volume loss of Alaska's major tree species.

Approximately one-third of the old-growth timber board-foot volume in Southeast Alaska is defective, largely due to decay from this type of fungus.

Conversely, there is very little decay in young-growth stands without prevalent wounding from commercial thinning activities, wind damage, or animal feeding.

[2] This stem decay creates canopy gaps, influences stand structure and succession, increases biodiversity, and enhances wildlife habitat.

The fungus also performs essential nutrient cycling functions in these forests by decomposing stems, branches, roots, and boles of dead trees.

There is a growing interest in acquiring methods to promote earlier development of stem decays in second-growth stands to achieve wildlife and other non-timber objectives.