The World of Nematodes

Soil nematodes are microscopic, worm-like organisms that live in the soil freely or as parasites. They are a diverse group of invertebrates that play a crucial role in soil health, including nutrient cycling, plant growth, and suppressing plant pathogens. Millions of nematodes can be found in just a handful of soil. 

Nematodes are valuable indicators of soil health because they are abundant in soils, easy to sample, and have diverse feeding habits that make them sensitive to changes in the soil’s physical, chemical, and biological environment. Their presence and community structure reflect the health of the soil food web, nutrient cycling, and overall soil quality.