A minute, worm-like animal, the pest attacks the roots of several plant species, including potato plants, causing very high yield losses.

PCN infestation causes plants to become stunted and they may wilt and have smaller, yellowish leaves. Affected plants have a reduced root system that shows abnormal branching and a brownish tint. Around flowering, minute white, yellow or brown spheres or cysts can be seen on the outside of roots. PCN reduces potential yields even in light infestations. Heavy infestations significantly reduce the size and number of tubers.

There are a number of precautions that can be taken to prevent the introduction and spread of PCN into Queensland.

• Plant certified seed purchased from recognised, certified-seed producers.
• Avoid sharing farm machinery and equipment with other growers. The most common way of spreading PCN is in soil or on equipment.
• Thoroughly clean all machinery and equipment moving off a property.
• Never bring contaminated root or bulb crops from nematode-infested areas into Queensland.
• Practice crop rotation.
• Arm yourself with information about the pest - its symptoms and appearance.
• Regularly examine your crops for patches of poor or yellow potato plants.
• Immediately report any suspect plants to Biosecurity Queensland, by calling 13 25 23.

PCN has the potential to cause serious industry and economic problems for Queensland's communities. Queensland has legislated quarantine entry conditions on risk items entering Queensland from within 20 km of a known PCN detection area. Biosecurity Queensland is also working hard to minimise risk through surveillance and education, however growers have a responsibility to put in place on-farm measures that help to reduce risk.