Many species of nematodes are 'free-living', living in soil, sea and freshwater. These feed on bacteria, fungi, protozoans and even other nematodes, and play a very important role in nutrient cycling and release of nutrients for plant growth. Other nematodes attack insects, and help to control insect pests.
What do nematodes worms eat?
Most nematodes feed on bacteria, fungi, or other microscopic creatures. As such, they are a major component of soil and sediment ecosystems.
What do soil nematodes eat?
Nematode Feeding Habits Predatory nematodes feed on protozoa and other soil nematodes. Omnivores feed on different foods depending on environmental conditions and food availability; for example, omnivorous nematodes can be predators, but in the absence of their primary food source, they can feed on fungi or bacteria.
Do nematodes eat other insects?
While there are many types of beneficial nematodes, insecticidal ones are naturally occurring microscopic organisms that live and feed on insects in the soil. There are different types of nematodes that kill insects.
Do nematodes eat plants?
They also prey on soil-dwelling plant pests such as white grubs and root maggots. Pest nematodes feed on plant roots, stunting and sometimes killing plants including many vegetables.
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