DOI: 10.1111/jph.70371 ISSN: 0931-1785
First Report of
Meloidogyne javanica
Infecting Rain Tree (
Samanea saman
) in Thailand
Natthidech Beesa, Awitsara Phochaeng, Chatchadaporn Ungkao, Pheeraphat Sangnoom, Kansiree Jindapunnapat, Anongnuch Sasnarukkit, Buncha Chinnasri ABSTRACT
Rain tree (
Samanea saman
) is a widely planted ornamental and shade tree in Thailand. In February 2025, root galls were observed on a mature rain tree at Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand, although no visible above ground symptoms were present. The causal agent was identified as
Meloidogyne javanica
based on perineal pattern morphology, species‐specific SCAR‐PCR, and sequence analysis of the 18S rRNA region. Pathogenicity was confirmed by inoculating 500 second‐stage juveniles (J2s) onto 45‐day‐old rain tree seedlings. Inoculated plants developed root galls, egg masses and eggs, whereas non‐inoculated controls remained symptomless.
M. javanica
was re‐isolated from inoculated plants, fulfilling Koch's postulates. This is the first report of
M. javanica
infecting rain tree in Thailand.