Update on the situation of Meloidogyne enterolobii in the Netherlands
The NPPO of the Netherlands recently informed the EPPO Secretariat of the situation of the root knot nematode Meloidogyne enterolobii (EPPO A2 List) on its territory.
M. enterolobii was first reported in the Netherlands in January 2023 on ornamental potted plants of Ficus microcarpa from a retail company (EPPO RS 2023/046) and eradicated (RS 2024/245). The nematode was detected again in 2025 on asymptomatic potted plants of Chrysalidocarpus lutescens (syn. Dypsis lutescens) originating from El Salvador (RS 2025/264) in several locations. The NPPO confirmed that these outbreaks have been eradicated.
The pest was found again twice in 2025 on ornamental potted plants of Ficus microcarpa originating from China. Root knots were observed on the roots of the plants. The two outbreaks were eradicated.
A recent finding occurred in 2026 on ornamental potted plants of Syzygium buxifolium originating from China. Root knots were observed on the roots of the plants. Eradication measures are applied and include destruction of all infested lots. Plants sharing the same water distribution system are subject to a 10-week incubation period before being inspected again.
The pest status of Meloidogyne enterolobii in the Netherlands is officially declared as: Transient, under eradication on ornamental plants indoors.
Sources
NPPO of the Netherlands (2026-02).