On this page you find listed questions and answers about nematodes in general, their application, formulation and packaging, handling and storage, and regulatory issues. The questions and answers can also be downloaded as a pdf.
Nematodes in general
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What are nematodes? What are nematodes? Nematodes are microscopically small (0.6 to 1 mm), unsegmented worms that occur naturally in the soil throughout the world.
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Are there different types of nematodes? Are there different types of nematodes? Yes, there are entomopathogenic nematodes (insect parasitic), plant pathogenic nematodes, and saprophytic nematodes. The entomopathogenic nematodes are natural enemies of a lot of insects.
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Are all nematode species harmless? Are all nematode species harmless? No. Plant pathogenic nematodes cause harm to plants. However, entomopathogenic nematodes are 100% safe for plants, animals and humans. This is because only insects can be host to this group of nematodes. By far the most nematodes belong to the group of saprophytes. These nematodes are harmless and live of dead organic matter to provide a rich soil life.
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How do entomopathogenic nematodes work? How do entomopathogenic nematodes work? Nematodes are actively looking for a host or using an ambush strategy to reach their host. Once in contact with a host, they try to penetrate it through a body opening. In the host, the nematodes release a bacterium that can kill the host very quickly. This bacterium also causes the host to be converted into food for the nematodes. This food enables the nematodes to complete their life cycle.
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Are there different types of entomopathogenic nematodes?