Nematoda

What is the estimated number of species in the Nematoda phylum?

More than one million species.

What are the two main classes of Nematoda?

Chromadorea and Enoplea.

What are nematodes commonly called?

Roundworms.

What is Caenorhabditis elegans used for in scientific research?

Studying development, gene function, and programmed cell death.

What type of body symmetry do nematodes exhibit?

Bilateral symmetry.

What is the process by which nematodes move food through their digestive system?

Peristalsis.

What is the order of digestion in nematodes?

Mouth -> pharynx -> esophagus -> gizzard -> stomach -> intestine -> anus.

How do nematodes excrete nitrogenous waste?

As ammonia via diffusion.

What type of nervous system do nematodes have?

A simple nervous system with a ring of nervous tissue surrounding the pharynx.

Are most nematodes dioecious or monoecious?

Most are dioecious.

What type of excretory system does Class Enoplea have?

Simple non-tubular excretory system, usually a single cell.

What are the characteristics of amphids in Class Enoplea?

Pocket-like, not spiral, usually post-labial.

What are the reproductive characteristics of male nematodes?

Males may be monorochi or diorchic and have spicules to assist with depositing sperm.

What is unique about the esophagus in Class Enoplea?

It is cylindrical or bottle-shaped with 3 to 5 esophageal glands.

How do female nematodes reproduce in terms of ovaries?

Female generally has two ovaries.