: We call that Spalting
: Rehd
My fault for not consulting with Mr. Webster, but the kitten was sleeping on him. What's the attraction of an open book or newspaper?

Anywho, you were wise to avoid spalted wood for your frame. Its strength is usually seriously compromised. I half wonder if the woodturners guide likes to work with this stuff to see if they can get away with it!

I read somewhere that white wood fungus produces an enzyme that breaks down the lignum that provides the strength in wood. The lignum molicule is so complex that the chemists haven't worked it out yet. Others are working with the white fungus to see if it can be used to break down PCB's and other nasties into harmless compounds.

As the strips contribute most strength of a hull as a core to separate the skins, I think you could use spalted strips for their decorative effect. As you mention it's spongy and would soak up more resin, which would contribute to the hull's strength, although at some increase in weight.