Classification:
Nematodas are classified as Pseudo-coelomates. A Pseud-coelomates have a body cavity that is not enclosed by the mesoderm. They have a three-layered body that has a fluid-filled cavity. Another name for the Nematodas is a Roundworm. Diversity: Nematodas are different from other phylums because it lacks a circulatory system. Nematodas have a tubular digestive system with openings at both ends. The body of the worm is decorated by ridges, rings, and bristles. Unlike other phylums or worms the Nematoda is round. Life History: The Nematoda has been around for about one billion years. They feed on animals similar to itself and feed on other nematodes. Nematodas feed on phytplankton such as diatom, algae, and fungi. They also feed on dead organic material. Nematodas are mainly dioecious with is separation of male and females. The male and female have a sexual reproduction. The male injects sperm into the ovaries of the female. The male is generally smaller then the female. The are protected by a shell and secreted by the uterus. The eggs hatch into larvae with the newborn. Ecological Roles: Nematodes regulate the population of species and predators that eat them. As a parasite the Nematoda kills other species balancing out the ecosystem. The Nematodes excrete the excess nitrogen from food into plant-available form. The nematodes affect the plant population composition and succession. They live in the soil and feed on plant taking the water and nutrients from them. Nematodes also leave diseases on plants in to soil killing off the soil. Human Impacts: Although it is rare nematodes can be found within humans. They can cause serious diseases that damage the lymphatic system. Nematodes are transmitted to humans by eating uncooked meat and mosquito bites. Works Citied http://www.apsnet.org/EDCENTER/K-12/NEWSVIEWS/Pages/Nematodes.aspx http://www.darwinsgalapagos.com/animals/nematoda_roundworms.htm http://www.apsnet.org/edcenter/intropp/PathogenGroups/Pages/IntroNematodes.aspx |