Which CODIT wall is responsible for preventing decay from spreading into new wood produced after injury?

The correct response indicates that Wall 4 is crucial in the defense mechanism of trees against decay. This wall forms as a result of the tree's reaction to injury and serves the specific purpose of preventing decay from progressing into the new wood that is produced after the injury occurs.

When a tree is wounded, it activates its protective response, and Wall 4 is generated in the area immediately surrounding the injury. This wall is composed of secondary xylem and forms part of the tree's attempt to compartmentalize and isolate the damaged area. By doing this, Wall 4 helps to ensure that any decay that may have originated at the injury site does not extend into the newly formed wood, which is essential for the tree's ongoing health and growth.

In this context, Walls 1, 2, and 3 also play important roles in the compartmentalization process. For instance, Wall 1 is formed at the margins of the wound and acts to stop the advance of pathogens, while Wall 2 is produced in response to injury and gives physical support to the tree. Wall 3 forms towards the center of the decay and is involved in managing the decay process itself. However, it is Wall 4 that is specifically tasked with ensuring the