| Nematode
Although they are generally tiny creatures, if
all the world’s nematodes were joined end to end,
they’d stretch right around the equator!
What they look like:
Nematodes are elongated, thin worms without any segments
and are usually see-through. They are round in cross-section
(cut across) throughout the length of their body, which
is why they are also called roundworms. Their body is
generally blunt, tapered, or uniformly threadlike. The
mouth at one end has three or six lips with the anus at the other end . The sexes are separate but males
are rare or unknown in many species. Many, but not all
nematodes move with a characteristic whip-like motion.
Size:
Up to 12 mm long.
Where they live:
Nematodes live in soft sediment (matter deposited at
the bottom of the water) that they burrow into. They
can also live anywhere there's enough moisture. Some are parasitic and live within a plant or animal.
They live in warm and moist conditions that favour the
development of eggs and infection of hosts.
What they eat:
Nematodes can live on bacteria, fungi and plants. Some nematodes types are parasitic, living within plants or animals. In animals, they suck blood and tissue.
Pollution
tolerance: Tolerant, rating 3.
Nematodes can live in a wide range of environments and are tolerant to salt and different water temperatures. |
What’s interesting about
Nematodes?
|
