Nematode
Nematode
Nematodes (/ˈnɛmətoʊdz/), also known as roundworms, belong to the phylum Nematoda. They are a diverse animal phylum inhabiting a broad range of environments.
Etymology
The term "nematode" comes from the Greek words nêma which means "thread" and eîdos which means "form".
Description
Nematodes are typically microscopic, with some species measuring less than a millimeter in length. They are characterized by their long, slender, and unsegmented bodies. Despite their small size, nematodes play significant roles in various ecological processes, including nutrient cycling and disease transmission.
Classification
Nematodes are classified into several orders and families. The most well-known nematodes belong to the order Rhabditida, which includes the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans and the human parasite Strongyloides stercoralis.
Medical Importance
Several species of nematodes are of medical and veterinary importance due to their ability to cause disease in humans and animals. These include the filarial worms, which cause diseases such as lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis, and the intestinal roundworms, which cause diseases such as ascariasis and hookworm disease.
Related Terms
- Helminth: A general term for parasitic worms, including nematodes.
- Parasitology: The study of parasites, including nematodes.
- Anthelmintic: A type of drug used to treat infections caused by parasitic worms, including nematodes.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nematode
- Wikipedia's article - Nematode
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