Recovery Plan for the Guava Root-Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne enterolobii

Root-knot nematodes (RKN) in the genus Meloidogyne have long been considered one of the most destructive plant pathogens on earth. Meloidogyne enterolobii is an emergent species that is highly virulent and has arisen as a serious agricultural threat that has spread across tropical and subtropical growing regions around the world. As of 2024, M. enterolobii has been reported in 28 countries on 5 continents, and its distribution now includes 4 states in the southeastern US and Puerto Rico. Due to the cryptic nature of this species, it is likely to be even more widespread than is currently known. Meloidogyne enterolobii has raised concerns amongst growers and regulatory agencies in recent years due to its high rate of reproduction and its ability to infect many RKN resistant crop varieties and hybrids. With a broad host range that rivals the most damaging RKN species, M. enterolobii is likely to continue to spread and cause significant damage on an extensive list of horticultural and agricultural crops. Indeed, M. enterolobii has already become one of the most prevalent RKN species in some crop growing regions. There is a great need for additional research and management research to help growers manage this nematode. This National Plant Disease Recovery Plan is meant to provide a detailed overview of what is currently known about the biology, distribution, and management of M. enterolobii and provide a reference for those seeking more information or resources regarding this nematode species.