Potato cyst nematode found in Gippsland (Australia)

A 20km quarantine zone in Thorpdale's potato region has been declared following the discovery of potato cyst nematode.

The discovery, made during routine crop surveys required to meet standards for seed potato certification, could have a devastating effect on the seed potato industry.

Department of Primary Industries scientists identified PCN in soil samples taken from the affected property this week.

Additional samples have been sent to an interstate laboratory for further confirmation of the microscopic wormlike organism that feeds on the roots of the plants.

DPI Principal Plant Standards Policy Officer David Beardsell said that DPI was meeting with potato industry authorities and growers today to discuss the consequences of the detection and management of the pest, including the establishment of a control area around the detection site.