Janse L (2021) Pest risk analysis of Meloidogyne luci for Ukraine. Interdepartmental Thematic Scientific Collection of Phytosanitary Safety, (67), 317-336. https://doi.org/10.36495/1606-9773.2021.67.317-336

[In Ukrainian with English abstract]

Goal. To analyze the phytosanitary risk of introduction, acclimatization, distribution and harmfulness of Meloidogyne luci for Ukraine. 

Results. The current distribution area of M. luci covers six countries in Central and South America, two in Asia and four in Europe, viz. Greece, Italy, Portugal and Slovenia. More than 36 species (agricultural, flower-ornamental, medicinal and others) can act as host plant of M. luci. The potential harmfulness of M. luci is based on 1) high level of fertility of females, 2) the ability to survive in adverse conditions and 3) the ability to overcome resistance in tomatoes which is based on the Mi-1 resistance gene. At least three possible introduction pathways of M. luci to Ukraine have been identified via the import of infected plants or plant products from the countries within the current geographical distribution area of M. luci, that increased from (2016—2019 some 2.4 times).

Conclusions. Most of the imported plant products that could pose a risk for introduction of M. luci are coming from areas where it has been introduced recently, with low incidence and population densities. Therefore, the overall risk of introduction of M. luci into Ukraine is assessed as too low and it is recommended not to include M. luci in the Ukrainian national list of regulated pests.