Mycoflora of sawn timbers in Benin City

Abstract

In a fungal suryey of sawn timbers in scattared localities in Benin City, fungal species isolated were mainly members of Hyphomycetes, with few Ascomycetes and Basidiomycetes. Cellulolytic abilities of isolates were determined and found to be highest in a basidiomycete, Pleurotus ostreatus. The high incidence of these isolates was traced to the poor ventillation in the shades where the timbers arę sold and the high moisture content of timber before display for sale.