Morphology
Distinguishing PWN from other non-pathogenic species within the same genus (Bursaphelenchus) is challenging due to highly similar morphological features, but a positive ID can be achieved using molecular analyses such as RFLP.
B. xylophilus is distinguished by three characteristics: The spicules are flattened into a disc-like structure, also known as the cuculus, at the distal end. Their anterior vulval lip has a distinct overlapping flap and the posterior end of the female body is rounded in nearly all of the individuals.
Read more about this topic: Bursaphelenchus Xylophilus
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