Pine wood nematode detected in France: monitoring intensifies in Germany

French authorities have confirmed the first detection of the pine wood nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus) in France, the Ministry of Agriculture reported. The infestation was identified in Seignosse, in the Landes region, and verified by Anses’ national reference laboratory. Classified as a “priority quarantine pest” under European legislation, the nematode attacks pines by blocking sap flow, which can quickly kill affected trees. It spreads locally through longhorn beetles of the genus Monochamus, which carry the nematodes to healthy trees during feeding. The prefect of Nouvelle-Aquitaine has convened local stakeholders to implement containment measures and prevent the spread to other ...