What term describes wood that is soft and decaying, which can attract pests?

The term that describes wood that is soft and decaying, which can attract pests, is compromised wood. This type of wood is often weakened by factors such as moisture, fungal growth, or insect damage, making it particularly appealing to pests. Pests are drawn to the decaying material for food and nesting purposes, and the presence of compromised wood can indicate an underlying problem with moisture or structural integrity.

Hardwood refers to wood from deciduous trees and does not inherently describe its condition as being soft or decaying. Drywood specifically refers to wood that has been thoroughly dried and is generally not prone to decay unless there is water exposure. Fermented wood, on the other hand, is not a widely recognized term in the context of pest control or decay, and it does not accurately describe wood conditions relevant to pest attraction. This understanding of compromised wood helps in pest management strategies, as recognizing and addressing the presence of soft, decaying wood can prevent pest infestations.