Course: Identification of plant-parasitic nematodes
About this service
In short- Accurate species identification for diagnostics and crop protection
- Hands-on training with expert guidance
- Combination of theory and practical microscopy
- Small group size for intensive learning
This specialised training course supports plant health professionals in accurately identifying plant-parasitic nematodes at genus and species level using morphological and microscopic methods.
About this training course
Correct identification of plant-parasitic nematodes is crucial for effective diagnostics, research and plant health decision-making. This one-week training course is designed for professionals who need reliable, morphology-based species identification skills.
The course focuses on the morphological identification of plant-parasitic nematodes at genus and species level. Major plant-parasitic nematode taxa within the Tylenchomorpha (root-knot, cyst, lesion, leaf and stem/bulb nematodes) and Triplonchida/Dorylaimida (virus-transmitting nematodes) will be discussed.
Training combines targeted lectures with extensive hands-on microscopy sessions. Participants work with permanent slides and live nematodes, supported by pictorial and taxonomic identification keys.
The course is suitable for professionals with basic experience in nematology and microscopy who wish to strengthen their skills in morphological species identification of major plant-parasitic nematodes.
Teaching and supervision
The course is taught by Dr ir Gerrit Karssen, specialist in nematode taxonomy and identification.
Practical details
- Dates: 22–26 June 2026
- Time: Daily from 09.00 to 16.00
- Participants: Maximum 10
- Fee: €2,000 (including coffee/tea, literature, reprints and manuals; accommodation not included)
- Location: NVWA – National Plant Protection Organization, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Transport: Watch the video on how to get from Schiphol airport to Wageningen campus
Accommodation options in Wageningen are available on request from Lisette Groeneveld-Vervloed.
Get in touch with our expert
Would you like some more information? Please contact our course coordinator Gerrit Karssen.
