Bio-ecological characteristics of invasive foliar nematode Aphelenchoides fragariae and its safe and effective management

Aphelenchoides fragariae, the foliar nematode, is an emerging phytosanitary threat in Indonesia, attacking horticulturals. Initially documented on Andrographis paniculata in 2003, it has now extended to strawberry, shallot, garlic, dracaena, and several ferns. The humid tropical climate of Indonesia, along with its frequent rain, promotes its survival and expansion. This study documents its incidence and quarantine records, summarizes knowledge of biology, host range, and transmission, assesses environmentally safe control measures, and recommends integrated pest management strategies for sustainable horticulturals. This study aimed to encapsulate the Aphelenchoides fragariae species as an invasive species, examining its influence on horticultural systems and the approaches for its management. The study synthesizes national and international literature through the year 2025 to consolidate knowledge on the biology, host range, transmission pathways, documented damage, diagnostic methods, and management options for Aphelenchoides fragariae relevant to Indonesian horticulture. The elements affecting production and trade, as well as eco-friendly control alternatives, were investigated and pinpointed to recommend a practical integrated pest management system that bolsters national agricultural progress and adheres to global phytosanitary requirements. Aphelenchoides fragariae persists in plant debris, enters dormancy under stress, and reproduces rapidly, with a host range of nearly five hundred species across one hundred families. It spreads through rain splash, sprinkler irrigation, infected foliage, asymptomatic planting material, and trade. The nematode causes severe defoliation reported as 60–80 percent and 65–82 percent yield decline under heavy infestation. Alternative management strategies must align with integrated pest management principles, focusing on prevention and low-impact solutions. Use of pest-free planting material, quarantine, molecular surveillance, residue removal, drip irrigation are preventing infestations, hot water treatment, validated botanical nematicides (neem, cashew nutshell liquid, essential oils), biological antagonists, and regulated use of low-toxicity chemicals only as a last resort are suppressing populations. Environmentally safe management of nematodes relies on biological measures such as botanicals, beneficial and antagonistic microbes. Techniques including hot water treatment and sanitation contribute to the reduction of inoculum. Limited use of low-toxicity chemicals, quarantine safeguards, and regulation further improve environmental safety. To achieve effective implementation, it is essential to provide training for farmers, ensure thorough monitoring, foster collaboration, and integrate nematode surveillance within early warning systems.