An update on the biodiversity, occurrence, and distribution of the Family Longidoridae In Portugal

Abstract

The genera Xiphinema, Longidorus, and Paralongidorus (Nematoda: Longidoridae) are ectoparasitic nematodes considered to be important economical pests because of their activity as vectors of important plant nepovirus, with some species included in the list of quarantine organisms in many European countries. Knowledge of the biodiversity and occurrence of nematode group species is a prerequisite for the establishment of sound management strategies and control measures. According to data collected from databases and published literature, an update on the distribution and occurrence of Paralongidorus spp., Longidorus spp., and Xiphinema spp. from Portugal (including the Madeira and Azores archipelagos) is herein proposed. To date a total of 55 species (15 Longidorus, 1 Paralongidorus, and 39 Xiphinema) has been recorded from the Portuguese territories; 55 species in Continental Portugal, while 8 and 9 species in the archipelagos of the Azores and Madeira respectively. The biodiversity of species in Portugal is probably one of the highest in the world, though it appears to be higher in “dagger” (Xiphinema) than in “needle” (Longidorus, and Paralongidorus) nematodes.