This paper presents an overview of the decomposition of wood by white- and brown-rot fungi - the most important and potent of known wood-decay fungi. These organisms are unique among cellulose destroyers because of their strong capability to enzymatically degrade lignified material. Special emphasis is given to the following aspects of wood decomposition by white- and brown-rot fungi: (1) effects on the chemical and physical properties of wood, (2) method of invasion and ultrastructural modification of wood, (3) nature and activities of extracellular degrating enzymes, (4) relationship of ultrastructural changes to the degradative enzyme systems, and (5) unique physiological features of the fungi that can be used to control decay.

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