The Function of Microorganisms in Marine Wood-Boring Processes

Microorganisms are of central importance in the biodeterioration of wood by wood-boring organisms in marine habitats. We have demonstrated that shipworms attack wood that has been pre-conditioned by microbial degradation. Apparently the microorganisms function by either triggering metamorphosis or releasing an essential nutrient from the wood. We have shown that the crustacean wood-borer, Limnoria, lacks a digestive tract microflora, while the borer exoskeleton is densely colonized by bacteria. It is probable that these organisms, living in a nitrogen deficient environment on wood, use bacteria in wood and on their exoskeletons as a nitrogen source. We are currently studying the role of bacteria in the development and survival of other wood- boring organisms. Our efforts are directed at development of effective targeted chemicals for control of wood-borers.