Nematodes that Eat Plants

Many animals consume plants, but most are visible to the naked eye and are considered pests due to the damage they cause. These pests include mammals, insects, arthropods, and mollusks. Unlike these visible pests, plant-parasitic nematodes are microscopic and cannot be seen without a microscope. These pathogens feed on plants, causing diseases, and have long-term associations with their hosts. Nematodes are the primary animals responsible for plant diseases, affecting nearly every plant species. They are often called "hidden enemies" because their presence is not noticed, yet they result in significant crop damage, leading to reduced profits for farmers, nurseries, and greenhouses. Nematodes are common in fields with a history of plant production, making it likely they are feeding on crops in your garden, farm, or greenhouse.