Several fungi are commonly used or naturally involved in agarwood resin formation. Each has a specific role, risk level, and effect on resin quality.
1. Fusarium spp.
- Type: Pathogenic / endophytic (depends on strain)
- Role:
- Strong immune activation → resin formation
- Produces oxidative stress signals
- Use: Only controlled, tested strains for induction
- Risk: Wild Fusarium → rot, tissue necrosis, tree death
2. Lasiodiplodia spp.
- Type: Endophytic / opportunistic pathogen
- Role:
- Induces resin when carefully applied
- Works well with mechanical wounding
- Benefit: Can produce high-quality, dark resin
- Risk: Over-inoculation → soft rot
3. Aspergillus spp.
- Type: Endophytic or saprophytic
- Role:
- Produces enzymes that slightly degrade wood → defense response
- Stimulates sesquiterpene and chromone accumulation
- Use: Often part of biofilm-assisted induction
- Risk: Some species can produce toxins → use only safe strains
4. Other Fungi
- Penicillium spp., Trichoderma spp., Alternaria spp.
- Can contribute to resin stimulation when applied in controlled inoculation
- Some act as synergistic microbes in biofilms
Key Principles for Farmers
| Fungus | Role | Risk | Farmer Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fusarium | Strong resin stimulator | Tree death if wild | Use tested inoculants only |
| Lasiodiplodia | Good dark resin | Rot if over-applied | Combine with moderate wounding |
| Aspergillus | Supports biofilm & aroma | Toxic if unsafe | Use safe endophytic strains |
| Others | Synergy in resin zones | Minor | Use in controlled biofilm mixture |
6. Farmer Key Message
“Choose the right fungi, in the right amount, in the right place — friendly microbes make resin, not rot.”