Hoplolaimidae, when preserved for identification, are often curled into a C shape, have a visible stylet with round knobs, and have a round tail.

Family Hoplolaimidae [hop-low-lime-i-dae]. Hoplolaimidae are considered plant parasites because they require a host plant to live and reproduce. They can parasitize a wide range of host plants, including pine trees, grasses, and agricultural crops.

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Monhysteridae often have two setae (horn-like growths) on their head, an amphid (a circular chemical receptor), and a long tail, among other fun features!

Family Monhysteridae [mon-hiss-tare-i-dae]. Monhysteridae are quirky bacteria-eating nematodes, because they have unique body features and are adapted to a wide range of environmental conditions: anaerobic (no oxygen), dry, and even polluted environments.

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They have a distinct combination of features, including a visible median bulb (part of the oesophageous), a stylet, and a round tail.

Family Aphelenchidae [af-i-lenk-i-dae]. This family likes to eat fungi, which nematologists call “fungivores.” Aphelenchidae are common in soils all over the world!

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Cephalobidae look and act similarly to Rhabditidae, and the two can be hard to tell apart! Many Cephalobidae have intricate mouthparts, especially the genus Acrobeles. They also can have an annulated (“wavy”) cuticle and a short tail, compared to Rhabditidae.

Family Cephalobidae [cef-a-lobe-i-dae]. Cephalobidae have funky mouthparts, which they use to feed on bacteria. This family is common in all soils and they respond positively to nutrient additions.

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Discolaimidae have a spear that can be used to pierce other nematodes - this means they are predatory feeders! These nematodes are quite large (~1-2 mm) compared to the Rhabditidae from last week 🪱

Family Discolaimidae [dis-co-lime-i-dae]. Disco’s are ready to party! They are aptly named since they have unique disc-shaped lips that are often wider than their body.

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Good question! They do not (yet) - I sometimes use nicknames - this one’s a “rhab” to me ☺️ nematologists love the scientific names!

There are loads of species in this family, all with slightly different shapes and sizes. To identify them, look for their distinct tube-shaped mouth and their “butternut squash” looking oesophageous.

Family Rhabditidae [rhab-dit-i-dae]. These nematodes are SUPER common in soil samples. You can expect to find lots of them where bacteria are: after applying manure or in areas with decaying organic material.

#nematodes #invertebrates #soil #ecology

Why “dirty little worms”?
- nematodes are found wherever water is, including soil!
- these creatures are tiny; you often need a microscope to see them
- nematodes are roundworms 🪱🪱

Welcome to dirty little worms !! 🪱 My name is Rachel and I’m so glad you’re here ☺️ Join me as we learn about nematodes together - I can’t wait to introduce you to the world of little worms!

Photo credit: @mer.mann

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