Coffee leaf nematode

Coffee leaf nematode (Aphelenchoides coffeae) is a destructive plant-parasitic nematode classified within the order Aphelenchida. This species is unique due to its facultative feeding habits, as it can thrive both on higher plant tissues and various fungi, allowing it to maintain populations even in the absence of primary host crops.

The pathogen primarily affects coffee plants, various ornamental greenhouse crops, and vegetables. Damage is typically manifested through systemic symptoms such as foliar necrosis, chlorosis, deformation of leaves, and stunted development of the root system, ultimately leading to significant yield losses and reduction in plant vitality in nursery conditions.

The biological cycle of Aphelenchoides coffeae consists of several larval stages and an adult stage. The nematodes require moisture films to move across plant surfaces and enter tissues through natural openings like stomata. Their ability to survive desiccation through anhydrobiosis allows them to persist in dormant plant material or contaminated soil for extended periods.

Development is most favorable in environments with high relative humidity and moderate temperatures. The spread of the pest within agricultural production units is frequently attributed to contaminated irrigation water, infested soil particles, and the movement of equipment between production areas, making strict phytosanitary measures essential.

Effective control strategies focus on exclusion and sanitation rather than chemical eradication. Key practices include:

• using certified, nematode-free propagation material;
• thermal sterilization of potting media and soil;
• proper maintenance of tools and greenhouses to ensure hygienic conditions;
• immediate removal and destruction of symptomatic plants.