Timbers from the Tudor ship, Mary Rose, have been examined for the presence of fungal fruiting structures. Wood specimens were also examined for the presence of microbial decay patterns using light and scanning electron microscopy. Structural timbers were surveyed using the Pilodyn for an overall picture of the extent of decay. Mary Rose timbers were predominantly inhabited by marine fungi. Fourteen species were found fruiting on the surface but fungal decay was localized. Bacterial erosion and tunnelling of the wood cell wall were observed, but were rare. The Pilodyn has shown that decay in timbers exists in isolated pockets. The storage site has proved to be efficient in minimizing further microbial decay, while maintaining the waterlogged state of timbers.

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