Rev 03/08/2022
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Epsilonematidae are characterized by having an ε-shaped body (hence the name) and setae used in looper locomotion on the ventral surface of the body.
The condition of separate outlets for the three caudal glands is common among the genera of the Epsilonematidae.
Frequently found with supralittoral or intertidal matine fauna, but also in the deep sea. Coral fragments are an ideal substrate. At least two species have been reported from oxygen-limited depths at around 450m and at 1000m.
Raes, M., W. Decraemer and A. Vanreusel. 2006. Postembryonic morphology in Epsilonematidae, with a discussion on the variability of caudal gland outlets. J. Nematology 38:97-118.
Raes, M. Vanreusel, A. Decraemer, W. 2003. Epsilonematidae (Nematoda) from a cold-water coral environment in thePorcupine Seabight, with a discussion on the status of the genus Metaglochinema Gourbault & Decraemer, 1986. Hydrobiologia 505:49-72.