The susceptibility of neolithic waterlogged beech wood (Fagus sylvatica L.) to destruction by Reticulitermes lucifugus Rossi

The article presents the results of a test on the resistance of Neolithic waterlogged beech wood (Fagus sylvatica L.) to destruction by subterranean Reticulitermes lucifugus Rossi. Methodology consistent with the ASTM D 3345-08 Standard was applied in the experiment. In the coercion test, the modern beech wood was destroyed at an intermediate stage between light attack and moderate attack with penetration, whereas the pine sapwood was heavily damaged. Under the same conditions, the waterlogged beech wood was seriously damaged or completely destroyed by the termites. However, unlike the modern pine and beech wood, all the termites died after feeding on the waterlogged beech wood. In spite of the complete destruction of the waterlogged beech wood in the coercion test, it seems that under natural conditions where there is a possible choice between different wood species, the infestation by termites of waterlogged wood uncovered in archaeological work does not necessarily happen. Wood containing few nutritional substances and substantial lignin, as well as having a high moisture content facilitating the development of parasitic microorganisms, will deter termites.