Active plant nematologists (APN): cultivating collaboration, overcoming challenges, and shaping the future of nematology

Abstract

Active Plant Nematologists (APN) is a global scientific community established during the 2020 coronavirus pandemic to address the disruption of physical conferences and meetings in the field of Plant Nematology. Committed to fostering collaborations among nematology professionals and enthusiasts, APN provides a safe space for individuals worldwide, irrespective of their position, location, or background, emphasizing the vital role of nematodes in soil health and crop protection. Initially founded with a SLACK workspace, APN has grown to include 564 registered members globally, with diverse channels covering topics such as nematode taxonomy, phylogenetics, student and professional opportunities, and more.