Pinewood Nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner and Buhrer) Nickle

Abstract

Pine wilt disease (PWD) is likely the most serious threat to pine forests worldwide. The causative agent of PWD, the pinewood nematode (PWN) Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (Steiner and Buhrer) Nickle, engages in a symbiotic partnership with its insect vector, the Monochamus beetle, as well as associated bacteria and ophiostomatoid fungi, to successfully infect and kill its host pine trees. In this chapter, we focus on the interspecific communication between PWN and its associated partners, and the potential role of this communication in promoting pathogenicity and invasiveness of PWN. We describe the chemical and molecular signals positively influencing the survival, reproduction and spread of PWN. By considering life cycle of pinewood nematode and its interactions with other biological factors, many methods have been developed and used in infested areas. Removal of killed pines is the most important method in China. Direct trapping of vector adults were also used in recent years. Finally, concluding remarks and future perspectives were discussed in the chapter.