Koa is very susceptible to parasitism by the root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) in Hawaii. Root-knot nematodes are microscopic roundworms that attack the roots of koa and cause the roots to swell up and crack open and rot. Koa can support very high populations of these nematodes, which can shorten the life span of a tree. It is very important to avoid introducing nematodes to young koa seedlings.

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