The state of Florida has implemented nematode phytosanitary measures and certification programs that have protected agricultural interests for more than 40 years.A citrus disease called Spreading Decline,found to be caused by the burrowing nematode,Radopholus similis,devastated citrus orchards in the 1950s.The damage caused by this disease prompted the adoption of internal phytosanitary measures and the implementation of a citrus nursery certification program aimed at preventing the spread of major citrus nematode pests.Besides the burrowing nematode,this program included the citrus nematode(Tylenchulus semipenetrans)and the coffee lesion nematode(Pratylenchus coffeae).The program requires that citrus propagative material be produced by following strict sanitation practices.It also requires that non-infested orchards be protected from the introduction of these nematodes from contaminated sources or infested orchards.Another certification program,similar to that for citrus,was established for ornamentals and other plants for export to domestic and international markets where restrictions against the burrowing nematode are imposed.A similar certification program for ornamentals is implemented by the Florida ornamental industry for the production of plants free of other Florida nematode pests that are not regulated in Florida,but are regulated in domestic and international markets.