Pine Wilt Nematode
Bursaphelenchus xylophilus
Nematode
Leaves
Stems
Whole Plant
Overview
A devastating nematode disease of pines transmitted by longhorn beetles. Causes rapid wilting and death of susceptible pine species, particularly non-native pines in Asia.
Symptoms
Rapid wilting and browning of needles, progressing from branch tips inward. Resin flow ceases. Wood becomes dry. Tree death within weeks to months. Blue stain fungi often accompany infection.
Environmental Conditions
Hot
Prevention
Remove dead and dying pines promptly. Control longhorn beetle vectors. Quarantine wood movement from infested areas. Plant resistant pine species. Preventive trunk injection with abamectin.
Management
Remove and destroy infected trees before beetle emergence. Chip or burn wood. Trunk injection with abamectin for high-value trees. Vector control. Quarantine measures.