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
- Opportunity to analyse own samples and slides
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. It is also possible to bring your own slides/material for identification or to focus on other plant-parasitic nematode groups.
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
Travel information from Schiphol Airport and accommodation options in Wageningen are available on request from Lisette Groeneveld-Vervloed.
Get in touch with our expert
Interested in participating or need more information? Please contact our course coordinator Gerrit Karssen for details on registration and availability.
dr.ir. G (Gerrit) Karssen
Nematode specialist
