First report of Bursaphelenchus xylophilus on Pinus sylvestris in Spain

Keywords: molecular identification, morphological identification, pine wood nematode, surveys

Abstract

Aim of the study: To determine if the decline of a Pinus sylvestris L. stand is due to pine wilt disease.

Area of study: This research was conducted in the Agricultural and Phytopathological Laboratory of Galicia, LAFIGA (AGACAL, Xunta de Galicia).

Material and methods: Six decaying P. sylvestris trees were sampled for Bursaphelenchus xylophilus detection. Morphological and molecular tools were applied for nematode identification according to the EPPO protocols.

Main results: The nematode B. xylophilus was detected for the first time in P. sylvestris trees under natural conditions in Spain.

Research highlights: It is confirmed the serious threat posed by pine wilt disease to P. sylvestris stands.

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References

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Published
2025-10-13
How to Cite
Díaz, R., Villar, L., Fernández-Paz, J., & Menéndez-Gutiérrez, M. (2025). First report of Bursaphelenchus xylophilus on Pinus sylvestris in Spain. Forest Systems, 34(2), 20970. https://doi.org/10.5424/fs/2025342-20970
Section
Special Issue. Adaptation of forests in an unpredictable future

Funding data

Xunta de Galicia
Grant numbers Plan de control y erradicación de las plagas de cuarentena existentes en Galicia

Ministerio de Agricultura y Pesca, Alimentación y Medio Ambiente
Grant numbers Prevención y lucha contra plagas

European Parliament
Grant numbers Programa fitosanitario de vigilancia, erradicación y contención de las plagas de las plantas del año 2023