NEM3002 Module 2

Which trophic group of nematodes is primarily responsible for regulating microbial populations in the soil?

Bacterivores

What is a key characteristic of the dauer stage in nematodes?

Complete metabolic shutdown and hardening of the cuticle

In what type of habitat would you expect to find the highest nematode diversity?

Moist, undisturbed forest soils

Why are nematodes considered a keystone group in the soil food web?

They regulate microbial communities and facilitate nutrient cycling

An omnivorous nematode would most likely:

Consume both fungal hyphae and small invertebrates

Why are nematodes considered critical indicators of soil health?

Their diversity reflects the structure of the soil food web.

Which environmental factor is most likely to induce dauer formation in nematodes?

Low food availability

Which trophic group of nematodes contributes most directly to food security?

Herbivores

What role do nematodes play in decomposition?

They enhance microbial activity by grazing on bacteria and fungi.

The nematode life cycle includes how many juvenile stages before adulthood?

Four

How does a fungivorous nematode feeds?

Stylet

True or False: The nematology Nobel prize in 2015 was awarded for the discovery and development of green fluorescent protein?

False

Which of the following statements about soil microfauna is true?

They include protozoa, mites, springtails, and nematodes.

What distinguishes fungivorous nematodes from predatory nematodes in terms of morphology?

Presence of a stylet with a large, hollow spear

Nematodes that consume other nematodes or small organisms are classified as:

Predators

Which method would best allow for observing nematode movement and trophic behavior in the lab?

Placing soil extract on a microscope slide

Which nematode life stage is generally the first mobile stage in the general nematode life cycle?

J2 (second juvenile stage)

True or False: The first nobel prize in nematology was awarded in 2000.

False

A nematode species capable of entering cryptobiosis can:

Survive extreme desiccation or freezing

Which of the following is NOT a survival strategy used by nematodes?

Sporulation

Which soil condition is most likely to favor fungivorous nematodes?

High organic material with decaying roots

Which of the following best describes the role of bacterivorous nematodes in soil ecosystems?

They consume bacteria, accelerating nutrient mineralization.

True or False: William Campbell and Satoshi Omura received the Nobel prize related to nematology in 2015.

True