11.

6 KINGDOM ANIMALIA
11.6.4 PHYLUM NEMATODA
(ROUND WORM- Ascaris sp.)
Learning Outcome:

Describe the unique characteristics of

Nematoda
 [LEARNING OUTCOME]
Describe the unique
characteristics of
Bilaterally symmetrical Nematoda

True tissue-Triploblastic
Pseudocoelomate
Protostome
Unsegmented

Source: Biology, Solomon, Pseudocoelomatenematode. A pseudocoelomate animal has a body

Berg & Martin, 9th ed. cavity that is not completely lined with mesoderm.
 [LEARNING OUTCOME]
Describe the unique
characteristics of
Nematoda

Long cylindrical in shape with tapered

posterior end and blunt anterior end
Body is covered by tough, flexible
cuticle
- provides protection
- gives the nematode body shape
- help the animal resist drying

Source: Biology Campbell, Reece et al, 9th ed.

 [LEARNING OUTCOME]
Describe the unique
characteristics of
Nematoda

Digestive system
-Have complete digestive tract
(with mouth and anus)

Excretory system
- Through the excretory canal

Source: Biology, Solomon, Berg & Martin, 9th ed.

 [LEARNING OUTCOME]
Describe the unique
characteristics of
Reproductive system Nematoda
Reproduce sexually by internal
fertilization
separate sexes in most species
the size of female is larger than male
 [LEARNING OUTCOME]
Describe the unique
characteristics of
Nematoda

No circulatory & respiratory systems

- No specialized circulatory & respiratory

structures are present in nematodes.
 [LEARNING OUTCOME]
Describe the unique
characteristics of
Nematoda

Move by contracting longitudinal

muscles on alternating sides of
the body, no circular muscle

Modes of nutrition:
- saprophytic (free living)
- parasitic
[LEARNING OUTCOME]
Describe the unique
characteristics of
Nematoda

Aquatic
nematoda

Parasitic
nematoda
 [LEARNING OUTCOME]
Describe the unique
characteristics of
Nematoda

Habitats:
- most aquatic
- wet soil
- moist tissues of plant
- body fluid and tissues of
animals
 e.g. Brugia malayi

Elephantiasis causing
agent
Visible enlargement of
legs or genitals
Long roundworm block
the bodys lymphatic
system
- causing lymphatic
fluid to accumulate in
the tissues
- lead to great swelling
of limbs