Which type of wood decay is characterized by a lighter texture and color?

White rot is characterized by a lighter texture and color as it causes the wood to lose lignin while preserving cellulose, resulting in a fibrous appearance. This type of decay typically has a whitish or light brown color and can give the wood a spongy feel as it deteriorates. The action of white rot fungi breaks down the wood in such a way that the remaining structure feels soft yet retains some of its original form, which distinguishes it from other wood decay types.

In contrast, brown rot typically results in a darker wood color and a more brittle texture, as it primarily consumes cellulose and leaves behind a brown, crumbly residue. Pockmarked rot is not a commonly recognized term in wood decay and does not describe a specific type of fungal decay. Soft rot can also cause damage to wood, but it generally presents with a texture and color that is not as light or fibrous as white rot.