Importance and potential impact of the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne enterolobii

The root-knot nematode Meloidogyne enterolobii is a polyphagous species, attacking an extremely wide range of host plants including ornamentals and most important agricultural crops. It is considered as one of the most pathogenic and virulent root-knot nematode species, as it is able to develop and reproduce on host plants carrying resistance to the major tropical root-knot nematode species.
For the Swiss M. enterolobii population, a high reproduction and damage potential was confirmed on tomato and pepper carrying the Mi-1 and the N resistance gene, respectively. Studies revealed that M. enterolobii was not able to survive at temperatures below 0°C, but remained viable in soil for almost one year at 0 to 3°C. Based on its high damage potential on resistant root-stock or plants together with a wide host range and reproduction potential, M. enterolobii clearly presents a risk for vegetables produced in protected cultivation and the tropical, sub-tropical parts of the EPPO region. To avoid new introductions through imported plants, a range of diagnostic tools was developed and validated to detect and identify M. enterolobii and to allow for timely decision-making processes by NPPOs and diagnosticians. Furthermore, integrated strategies using chemical and biological products were developed for direct control of this root-knot nematode species to mitigate losses in yield and quality of high value crops.