Dry rot in ships from various countries. The second was launched in 1810 and, when inspected, the timbers of the upper decks were found to be infected with 'the dry rot'. By 1816 the cost of repairs for this vessel had exceeded the ship's original construction cost. Texts published in the 19th and early 20th centuries also used the term to describe fungi which produced substantial (white colored) mycelium including;"Antrodia (Fibroporia) vaillantii". Eventually, the term "dry rot" came to apply to only one or two fungi the main one being "Serpula lacrymans", in the majority of texts dealing with the subject, predominantly
Serpula lacrymans 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. It appears that "Serpula lacrymans" requires an environment where both inorganic and organic materials are present. The fungus uses calcium and iron ions extracted from plaster, brick, and stone to aid the breakdown of wood, which results in brown rot. Although it is a common indoor biodeterioration agent, it has only been found in a few natural