Free-living and Plant-Parasitic Nematodes (Roundworms)

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This lesson introduces learners to the world of nematodes (roundworms). Learners construct Baermann funnels to extract nematodes from soil and learn to differentiate stylet-bearing nematodes (most likely plant parasites) from free-living nematodes. This lesson includes background information, study questions with answers for learners, and diagrams. Dissecting and compound microscopes are required (not included in cost of materials).

Preparation Time:: Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:: 1 to 7 days
Estimated Materials Cost:: $1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:: Ages 14 - 18
Resource Types:: Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:: English

Materials List (per group of students)

conical glass (preferably) or plastic funnel, at least 100 mm in diameter
ring stand (to hold funnel)
flexible rubber or plastic tubing
spring-action hose clamp
circular piece of wire screen to fit inside top of funnel
2-ply facial tissue (without moisturizing lotion)
Pasteur pipettes and bulbs
petri plate or watch glass
microscope slides and cover slips
clear nail polish
alcohol lamp
stereomicroscope (dissecting microscope)
compound microscope
freshly collected soil, preferably from forest floor or garden

Keywords

Subjects

Life Sciences
- Diversity of Life
  - Plants
  - Animals
  - Viruses and Bacteria
  - Protists and Fungi
  - Classification
- Ecology
The Nature of Science
- The Scientific Process
  - Conducting Investigations
  - Formulating Explanations

Informal Categories

Animals
Nature and Environment

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

see
touch

Learning styles supported:

Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

This resource is part of:

APS Education Center

Access Rights:

Free access

By:

Tylka, Gregory L. ; Jasalavich, Claudia A.