Order Strongylida

Bursate Nematodes

Rev. 04/05/24

• male with prominent rays in lobed caudal alae - the uniting feature of the order
• adults are vertebrate parasites
• juveniles feed on bacteria or are parasites of annelids/molluscs
• Most known life-cycles in the Strongylida are direct, with infection of the host occurring by ingestion or skin penetration by the third larval stage.
• Some species use molluscs or annelids as intermediate hosts.
• Many species are of economic significance, with a few infecting humans.

Genera include:

Ancylostoma (hookworm)

Enterobius (pin worm)(???)

Relationships among species, genera, and even families, within the Nematoda are becoming clearer as morphological, morphometric, and life history features are considered along with molecular-based phylogenies. However, there remain differences of opinion among experts regarding classifications above the family level.  Such differences are apparent in the classification in the Order Strongylida or the consideration of suborders of the Strongylida as suborders of the Rhabditida.

Return to Order Key

Return to Higher Classification Page

Return to Main Menu

Go to Nemaplex Main Menu