Which disease is known for attacking the heartwood of trees?

Red Heart, also known as Red Ring Rot, is a disease specifically recognized for its impact on the heartwood of trees. This disease is caused by certain fungal pathogens that colonize and decay the heartwood, compromising the structural integrity and overall health of the tree. The heartwood is the central core of the tree, which provides support, and when it's attacked, the tree can become unstable and more susceptible to breakage.

Typically, red heart rot can cause discoloration and weaken the wood, making it less reliable for timber use and affecting the tree's longevity. It commonly affects conifers, such as pines, although other species can also be affected. Understanding this disease is essential in forestry management and tree health assessments, as it can lead to significant economic losses in timber production and forest ecosystems. The mention of other diseases and infestations in the options points to various challenges in forest health, but they do not specifically target the heartwood in the same manner as Red Heart/Ring Rot.