Nematoda
Nematoda
Nematoda (pronunciation: /nɛməˈtoʊdə/), also known as roundworms, is a phylum within the animal kingdom. The term "Nematoda" is derived from the Greek words "nema" meaning "thread" and "odes" meaning "like".
Etymology
The term "Nematoda" was first used in scientific literature by Karl Rudolphi in 1808, who derived it from the Greek words "nema" (thread) and "odes" (like). This is in reference to the thread-like appearance of these organisms.
Description
Nematodes are typically characterized by their elongated, cylindrical bodies, which are often transparent. They are bilaterally symmetrical, and unlike many other organisms, they do not have a true body cavity. Instead, they have a pseudocoelom, a fluid-filled space between the body wall and the digestive tract.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of nematodes involves several stages, including egg, four juvenile stages, and adult. The duration of each stage can vary widely depending on the species and environmental conditions.
Classification
Nematodes are classified into several orders and families. Some of the most well-known include the Ascaridida, Spirurida, and Rhabditida.
Medical Significance
Many species of nematodes are parasitic and can cause diseases in humans and other animals. Some of the most common diseases caused by nematodes include ascariasis, hookworm disease, and filariasis.
Related Terms
- Ascaridida: An order of nematodes that includes many of the most common parasitic roundworms.
- Spirurida: An order of nematodes that includes many species that are parasitic in humans and other animals.
- Rhabditida: An order of nematodes that includes many free-living species, as well as some that are parasitic.
- Ascariasis: A disease caused by the parasitic roundworm Ascaris lumbricoides.
- Hookworm disease: A disease caused by parasitic nematodes of the genus Ancylostoma or Necator.
- Filariasis: A group of diseases caused by nematodes of the family Filarioidea.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nematoda
- Wikipedia's article - Nematoda
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