First insights into the genetic diversity of the pinewood nematode in its native area and around the world.

Abstract

The pinewood nematode (PWN), Bursaphelenchus xylophilus is the causal agent of the pine wilt disease and is currently considered as one of the most important pests and pathogens in forest ecosystems. Native to North America, it has been introduced and it has spread in pine forests in Asia and more recently in Europe where it has now considerable economic and environmental impacts (annual loss of millions of pine trees worldwide). Anticipating the possibility of expansion of the PWN in European forests is essential. It is therefore important to decipher the invasion routes and better understand the invasion process of this species. To do this, 16 microsatellite markers have been developed and the study of genetic variability of the PWN was undertaken.