Meloidogyne chitwoodi in the Netherlands
Meloidogyne chitwoodi a potential candidate of the EPPO quarantine list had been found in 1988 at two sites in the Netherlands of which one was under strict control and the other one eradicated from the nematode infestation.
A recent report by the Plantenziektenkundige Dienst in Wageningen, however, indicate that this was only the tip of the iceberg. A survey for the nematode showed that the root-knot nematode is present on potatoes, beets, cereals, maize, beans, peas, carrots, tomato and black salsify (Scorzonera hispanica) in the south-east region of the Netherlands.
Analysis of nematological collections showed that the root-knot nematode has been present in the Netherlands since at least 1930! Authorities in Wageningen explain the fact that the organism could live for over 60 years "undercover" by its similarity to M. hapla. According to the Plantenziektenkundige Dienst in Wageningen, one reason, among others, why it was found now is the occurrence of two warm summers which possibly provided better environmental conditions for the multiplication of the nematode.
In the Netherlands, M. chitwoodi is considered as a new (may be old) representative of the root-knot nematode complex similar to the other Meloidogyne and not really of a quarantine significance.
Sources
Plantenziektenkundige Dienst, Wageningen (1991-06)