The Nematoda (round worms)

Major Characteristics Animal Characteristics Cylinderical and bilateral Triploblastic Pseudocoelomate Complete digestive system Tough cuticle

Body Plan Nematodes are composed of an ectoderm, mesoderm, endoderm making them triploblastic They contain a false cavity because it is located between the endoderm and mesoderm

Movement Round worms contain longitudinal muscle that run parallel to the anterior/posterior axis Contraction and relaxation of muscles on opposites sides of the animal create the characteristic whip like serpentine movement

Feeding The nematode have a complete digestive system with a mouth and anus One way travel of nutrient allows for divergence and specialization of digestive function along the digestive tract

Parasites Nematode parasites reproduce at a high rate, an enzyme resistant cuticle and eggs, with encysted larvae They include intestinal worms, the pork worm (trichinosis), and filarial worms (elephantiasis)