1.  Keep the Nematodes Alive!

Keep samples cool, do not solarize or heat-kill nematodes in sample bags.

2.  Ensure Nematodes are Accessible.

Cores of soil must be physically or chemically disrupted prior to extraction.  

Nematodes will not be separated from soil within cores.

3.  Optimize Extraction Conditions.

Ensure that Baermann funnels are not leaking and that tissue does not wick water from funnel

Temperature should be conducive to activity if nematode movement is required.

4.  Standardize All Aspects of Technique

The angle at which the sieve is held may alter the effective pore size and the efficiency of nematode recovery.