Understanding current and future distribution of parasitic plant nematodes in northern Australia

Northern Australia has immense potential for cropping due to its vast expanses of fertile land, abundant water resources, and tropical climate. The region has a diverse range of horticultural crops such as mango, melon, and Asian vegetables and is developing new industries like cotton, hemp, and legumes. However, the threat of nematode pests on crops could hinder this potential if effective management strategies are not implemented. Plant-parasitic nematodes are a major limiting factor in crop production (e.g. grains, cotton, horticultural crops). In this project, plant-parasitic nematode surveys will be conducted in three key northern Australian crop growing districts. The surveys will gather information on the type and distribution of potentially damaging nematodes, in northern Australia This information not only can be used to regularly update information provided to growers on how to minimize the spread of existing nematode pests, but also can help assess the biosecurity risk of exotic nematode pests and develop approaches to offset such risks. In addition to generating data, the project seeks to develop capacity in surveillance and diagnostics and support a shared responsibility approach to biosecurity in northern Australia. Training and guidance material (including presentations) and training workshops will support capacity building in diagnostics and surveillance in northern Australia. To foster shared responsibility, engagement with growers will provide information on the nematodes in their region and how to identify plant damage indicating the presence of nematodes to support surveillance activities.