Abstract

Teak (Tectona grandis L.f.) attacked by mistletoe, Dendrophthoe falcata, was tested for strength properties. The modulus of rupture (MOR) and work to maximum load (Wmax) are significantly affected by the parasite attack. The wood of apparently non-infested trees had 16 per cent higher MOR values and 63 per cent higher Wmax values compared to wood of mistletoe-infested trees. Though modules of elasticity (MOE) and work to proportional limit values of wood of non-infested trees were not significantly different from the wood of infested trees, mistletoe attack caused reduction in these strength properties also