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Phylum: Nematoda
Phylum Nematoda consists of microscopic round worms which are both non-parasitic and parasitic.
Phylum Nematoda consists of microscopic round worms which are both non-parasitic and parasitic.
Nematode members are characterized as blastocoelomates as they don't posses full coelom since they aren't completely lined by peritoneum. The cuticle of nematodes are flexible and functions as a skeleton and is protective, this feature is also a common shared trait with arthropods. Within the nematodes epidermis four groups of longitudinal muscles allow for the body to move in a thrashing motion.
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Nematodes are free living animals found in aquatic, moist soil, plant tissues or in other animals body fluids and tissues. Many nematodes are parasitic and carry out most of their life cycle in a host like humans such as Hookworms, Heartworms, Guinea Worms, and Pinworms.