Effect of methylene bisthiocyanate on propugales and established mycelium of two sapstain fungi

The effect of methylene bisthiocyanate (MBT) on Sphaeropsis sapinea and Ophiostoma floccosum was investigated using wood wafer assays and chemical analysis. Results obtained demonstrated that O. floccosum was significantly more tolerant to MBT than S. sapinea (p ≤ 0.001). O. floccosum tolerated MBT levels at least four times greater than S. sapinea. Established hyphae of both test fungi had greater tolerance against MBT as compared to their respective propagules (spores/hyphal fragments). Volatile components released from MBT-treated wood inhibited fungal growth on untreated wafers. Headspace analysis using gas chromatographic-mass spectroscopy confirmed the volatile components released from MBT treated wood. However, the combined effect of diffusion and vapor action of MBT was more pronounced in controlling fungal growth.