What is a characteristic of brown rot fungi?

Brown rot fungi are known for their ability to decompose wood by breaking down cellulose while largely leaving behind lignin. A defining characteristic of these fungi is their destruction of the structural components of wood, leading to significant shrinkage and a crumbly texture that can ultimately turn wood into a powdery substance. This process severely compromises the integrity of the wood, making it more susceptible to damage and loss of strength.

In contrast, the other choices don't accurately represent the behavior of brown rot fungi. For instance, while it may impact wood that is dry, it doesn’t exclusively affect dry wood, as it can also thrive in conditions with higher moisture content. Additionally, brown rot does not cause bleaching; rather, that trait is typically associated with white rot fungi, which do break down lignin. Lastly, brown rot fungi do not enhance the wood's structural integrity; on the contrary, they lead to its degradation. Thus, the correct choice highlights the destructive nature of brown rot fungi and their significant impact on wood material.